David Ochayi
(James Gardiner. Image Credit: Modern Ghana)
Ghana is taking a firm stance against television networks broadcasting Nigerian films without proper licensing, as revealed by James Gardiner, Deputy CEO of the Ghana National Film Authority (NFA).
The issue came to light during a conversation between Gardiner and Nigerian filmmaker Uchenna Mbunabo, who highlighted unauthorized airing of Nollywood content from YouTube on Ghanaian TV stations. Gardiner confirmed that the practice violates Ghanaian law.
When questioned about enforcement measures, Gardiner stated that the NFA, along with the Ministry of Communication, the National Media Commission, and the National Communications Authority, is working on a regulatory overhaul. This includes plans to cancel all existing broadcasting licenses and mandate stations to reapply under stricter compliance rules.
Gardiner projected that the new licensing framework will be fully implemented by 2027, ensuring stricter adherence to intellectual property rights.
Prominent Nollywood figures such as Bimbo Ademoye, Omoni Oboli, Mercy Johnson, and Ruth Kadiri have also criticized Ghanaian stations for unauthorized broadcasts of their films, calling for stronger legal protections.
