by Legalnaija | Jun 4, 2025 | Blawg
KiaKia Finance is a Proud Lead Sponsor of the NBA Lagos Branch Annual Law Conference 2025. KiaKia Finance’s sponsorship underscores its commitment to the rule of law, integrity, and the highest ethical standards in the legal profession.
KiaKia Finance’s sponsorship underscores its commitment to the rule of law, integrity, and the highest ethical standards in the legal profession.
We are excited to drive discussions at the intersection of law, technology, and finance, particularly in Nigeria’s rapidly evolving digital economy. Our company believes strengthening the nation’s legal framework is key to unlocking its full potential.
*Signed:*
Isiragbe Aguele
Territory Manager
KiaKia Finance Ltd
by Legalnaija | Jun 4, 2025 | Uncategorized
Reclaiming the Masters: Taylor Swift’s Playbook as a Map for Artists (Lessons for Artists on Intellectual Property Rights)
Introduction: Ownership of masters in musical works has always been a contentious issue in the entertainment industry. From time immemorial, artists have entered into record deals with high hopes seeking fame, financial backing, and the infrastructure to launch or boost their careers. However, many artists, in their excitement and desperation, hastily sign contracts without a proper legal review or, worse still, rely on lawyers unfamiliar with the nuances of entertainment law.
A common clause in most record deals is the assignment of ownership of the master recordings to the label, often in perpetuity. This leaves the artist stripped of control over their intellectual property sometimes for life.
The Shalipopi vs. Dapper Dispute
In 2024, a dispute between Nigerian artist Shallipopi and his record label Dapper went viral. In an open letter, Shallipopi claimed that Dapper would retain a percentage of his master recordings forever. Sadly, this isn’t new. Similar issues have occurred in Nigerian music history like the public fallout between Wizkid and Banky W, and the heated legal battle between Kizz Daniel and G-Worldwide all tied to the same ownership struggles.
Taylor Swift and the Master Rights War
Globally, one of the most well-known cases is Taylor Swift’s battle for her masters. Swift initially signed with Big Machine Records early in her career, under which she recorded her first six albums. When her deal ended in 2018, she signed a new contract with Republic Records (a division of Universal Music Group)—this time retaining ownership of any future masters.
But in 2019, Big Machine sold her original masters to Ithaca Holdings, owned by Scooter Braun. Taylor slammed the deal, stating that Braun had “stripped me of my life’s work” and that she was not even given the opportunity to buy her own masters. Legally, because she had signed away those rights, she had no control over the sale.
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However, Taylor fought back by re-recording her albums under the new label. Albums like Fearless (Taylor’s Version) and Red (Taylor’s Version) were released to give fans an alternative to the original versions—and crucially, to allow Taylor to earn from the new masters she now owns.
Her action was a masterclass in intellectual property reclamation and a wake-up call for artists globally: your intellectual property is an investment, not a giveaway.
Understanding Ownership of Intellectual Property in Music
The Copyright Law of Nigeria, like that of the United States, vests initial ownership of musical works (lyrics, melody, sound recordings) in the author or creator. However, once an artist signs a contract that assigns or licenses these rights to a label, the label becomes the owner of the masters and associated IP.
This may include:
- Trademark rights to the artist’s name or branding
- Artwork and album visuals
- Licensing rights for commercial use, endorsements, or media deals
If an artist signs these rights away, the label then has full control and can sell, license, or exploit the works without needing the artist’s further permission. In Taylor Swift’s case, she likely could not claim infringement because her earlier deal legally transferred ownership to Big Machine Records.
What Artists Must Know Before Signing a Contract
Historically, record labels always seek to own the masters and associated Intellectual Property. They invest resources and want maximum control and returns. Here are key points artists must consider:
- Labels are businesses, not charities:
Their contracts are drafted to protect their investments, not yours. No matter how attractive the terms may look, do not sign without a lawyer skilled in entertainment law.
- Advances are not free money:
Any advance offered to you will be recouped from your royalties. If the deal structure is poor, you might never see any actual income.
- Perpetual ownership clauses are dangerous.
Always negotiate for a reversion clause (rights return to you after a number of years) or a buyout clause (giving you the option to purchase your masters).
- Exclusivity limits your freedom:
Labels often include clauses allowing them to license your work to third parties. Make sure these deals are limited to the term of your agreement and include your consent for key usages.
Intellectual Property Is an Asset
Your intellectual property is a valuable, appreciating asset. Like real estate, it can be inherited, sold, leased, or mortgaged. If your masters are transferred to a label, they legally own it and can exploit it without your say.
This is why Taylor Swift couldn’t stop the sale of her original recordings she no longer owned them. The label didn’t need her consent.
Likewise, any artist who signs away their rights should understand: any sampling, interpolation, or mashup of your music will result in compensation being paid to the current owner, not you.
Taylor Swift’s Playbook as a Map for Artists
Taylor Swift’s decision to buy back her catalogue (by re-recording) is a game-changer. It shows that even if you signed a bad deal in the past, you may still recover your IP through strategic negotiation and legal routes.
Her move has inspired a new wave of creators especially upcoming artists to:
- Ask for reversion clauses
- Include buy-back options
- Demand clear timelines for IP control and usage
But can every artist reclaim their Catalogue? Maybe. It depends on the original contract and how well your legal team can negotiate with the current rights holders. It’s not always possible but it’s worth trying.
Conclusion
The fight for ownership of masters is not just a legal battle—it’s a battle for control, legacy, and wealth. Artists must:
- Understand that IP is their estate
- Never treat contracts lightly
- Engage entertainment lawyers who understand the terrain
Remember, your master recordings are your legacy. Don’t be so eager for fame or a Cheque that you sign away your future.
Taylor Swift’s journey offers a vital lesson: if you lose your masters, fight to get them back. If you haven’t signed yet, fight to retain them.
by Legalnaija | Jun 4, 2025 | Blawg
Theme: The Politics of Federalism: Power Dynamics Among the Tiers of Government
📅 Friday, 11th July 2025 |
🕙 10:00AM prompt
📍 Aare Afe Babalola Bar Center, Iyaganku, Ibadan
In the face of Nigeria’s evolving democratic journey, the discourse around federalism remains not just relevant, but urgent.
How is power structured in our federal arrangement?
Are the current tiers of government promoting equity, justice, and development—or stifling them?
What lessons can we learn from the past, and what frameworks can we build for a more functional, accountable future?
These are the pressing questions the Justice Aderemi Annual Lecture Series (JAALS) seeks to answer as it convenes an exceptional panel of leaders, legal experts, and policy influencers to unpack the nuances of federalism and power distribution in Nigeria.
🎤 SPEAKERS INCLUDE:
🔹 Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN – President, Nigerian Bar Association (Keynote Speaker)
🔹 Prof. Oyelowo Oyewo – Former AG/Commissioner for Justice, Oyo State (Chairman, Reactor Panel)
🔹 Hon. Justice (Prof) Alero Akeredolu – Hon. Judge, Ondo State High Court
🔹 Yemi Akangbe, SAN – Former Chairman, NBA Lagos
🔹 Yemi Adamolekun – Director, Enough is Enough Nigeria
🔹 Aare Isiaka Olagunju, SAN – Managing Partner, Abike Chambers
His Excellency Engr. Seyi Makinde – Executive Governor, Oyo State (Special Guest of Honour)
Hon Justice Iyabo Yerima – Honorable Chief Judge, Oyo State (Chief Host)
This conversation is not just for lawyers or public office holders, it is for anyone passionate about nation-building, democratic reform, and effective governance.
Join us as we interrogate the power architecture of our federation and contribute to the shaping of Nigeria’s next chapter.
SAVE THE DATE!!!
—
✅ Register via www.jaalsfoundation.org
📩 RSVP: admin@jaalsfoundation.org
📞 07036697933
#JAALS2025 #ThePoliticsOfFederalism #NigeriaLeadership #GoodGovernance
by Legalnaija | May 29, 2025 | Blawg
In today’s digital age, a strong online presence is no longer optional—it’s essential. Whether you’re a solo practitioner or part of a larger firm, leveraging social media can help you establish credibility, reach potential clients, and engage with the legal community. Here are some key strategies to make the most of your social media platforms:
- Choose the Right Platforms
Not all social media channels are created equal. LinkedIn remains a top choice for lawyers, offering networking opportunities and a space for professional thought leadership. Twitter (X) is great for sharing quick legal insights, while Instagram and TikTok can be useful for showcasing firm culture and providing accessible legal tips. Facebook can also be beneficial for engagement with local communities.
- Share Valuable Content
Consistency and quality matter. Post content that educates, informs, and engages your audience—such as:
- Legal insights on trending topics
- Case studies and success stories (while maintaining confidentiality)
- Industry news and updates
- Behind-the-scenes firm culture and team highlights
- Client testimonials
- Engage and Interact
Social media is not just about broadcasting messages—it’s about building relationships. Respond to comments, engage in discussions, and participate in relevant legal conversations to establish credibility and trust.
- Leverage Video and Visuals
Short videos explaining legal concepts in simple terms can make your content more digestible and shareable. Infographics that summarize complex ideas can also be powerful tools for engagement.
- Be Ethical and Professional
Lawyers must navigate ethical considerations when posting online. Always adhere to client confidentiality rules, avoid giving personalized legal advice publicly, and ensure compliance with legal marketing regulations.
- Monitor Analytics and Adjust Strategies
Use analytics tools provided by platforms to track engagement, reach, and conversions. Understanding what works allows you to refine your strategy and maximize impact.
- Promote Your Legal Services with Online Directories
Beyond social media, listing your practice in reputable legal directories can significantly enhance visibility. Legalnaija Lawyers Directory offers a fantastic opportunity to showcase your expertise, connect with potential clients, and strengthen your online presence.
The internet has revolutionized legal practice, enabling lawyers to expand their reach beyond geographical limitations. Whether through social media or legal directories, leveraging digital tools ensures you remain visible, accessible, and influential in your field. Don’t miss out—embrace the digital transformation today!
by Legalnaija | May 16, 2025 | Blawg
Why Nigerian Lawyers Must Be Visible Online
In today’s digital age, people turn to the internet for solutions to almost everything—including legal issues. According to Google Trends, hundreds of people in Nigeria search online daily for lawyers to help them navigate legal challenges. Whether it’s contract disputes, property transactions, or corporate legal matters, potential clients are actively looking for legal professionals who can provide guidance and representation.
The Importance of Online Visibility for Lawyers
When someone needs legal assistance, their first instinct is to search online. If a lawyer or law firm isn’t visible in those searches, they risk losing potential clients to competitors who have established a strong digital presence. Being accessible online is no longer optional—it’s a necessity for legal professionals who want to grow their practice and connect with clients efficiently.
For Nigerian lawyers looking to expand their client base, Legalnaija Directory is the ultimate solution. It provides a centralized platform where individuals and businesses can easily find qualified legal professionals based on their expertise and location. Here’s why Legalnaija Directory is a game-changer:
Increased Visibility – Lawyers listed on the platform appear in relevant searches, making it easier for clients to find them.
Targeted Client Reach – Connect with people actively seeking legal services in Nigeria.
Credibility & Trust – A professional profile on Legalnaija enhances a lawyer’s reputation and credibility.
Seamless Client Engagement – Potential clients can contact lawyers directly through the platform, streamlining the consultation process.
Don’t Miss Out on Potential Clients
If you’re a lawyer in Nigeria, now is the time to take control of your online presence. Clients are searching for legal help every day—make sure they find you when they need it most. Join Legalnaija Directory today and position yourself as a go-to legal expert in your field!
Ready to grow your practice? Get listed on Legalnaija Directory and start connecting with clients effortlessly. Log into the Lawyers Directory🚀
by Legalnaija | May 15, 2025 | Uncategorized
The Nigerian Institute of Chartered Arbitrators is looking to hire a Brand and Communications Executive, see details below;
JOB TITLE: Brands & Communications Executive
JOB TYPE: Full Time
QUALIFICATION: LLB/ BA/BSc/HND plus any relevant certifications
EXPERIENCE: 3- 5 years
LOCATION: Lagos, Nigeria
INDUSTRY: Legal / Arbitration / Communications / Media
APPLICATION DEADLINE: 30th May 2025
BRIEF ABOUT NIGERIAN INSTITUTE OF CHARTERED ARBITRATORS (NICArb.)
The Nigerian Institute of Chartered Arbitrators (NICArb) is Nigeria’s premier arbitration institute, founded in 1979. NICArb is committed to promoting and advancing the practice of arbitration and alternative dispute resolution (ADR) in Nigeria and across Africa. As we expand our digital presence, we seek a dynamic, creative, and self-driven NYSC Corps Member to join our team as a Social Media Manager.
JOB DESCRIPTION:
The Brand and Communications Executive will develop communications strategies to enhance NICArb’s brand image, customer engagement, and business objectives. The executive will also ensure consistency in messaging across all channels and manage the company’s digital presence. This role involves creating compelling content, building brand awareness, and promoting events and services.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Develop and implement a social media strategy that aligns with NICArb’s brand identity and organizational goals.
- Manage daily operations across all social media platforms (Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, YouTube, etc.).
- Create engaging and informative content (text, image, video, graphics) tailored to each platform.
- Collaborate with the “Training, Membership & ADR Centre teams” to promote training programmes, webinars, events, publications, and membership recruitments.
- Schedule and publish posts using content calendars and scheduling tools.
- Monitor, track, and provide performance analytics.
- Respond to comments, messages, and inquiries promptly and professionally.
- Stay updated with social media trends, best practices, tools, and industry developments.
- Assist in designing graphics and visuals for digital campaigns (using tools like Canva, Adobe Suite, etc.).
- Manage paid social media advertising campaigns.
- Ensure brand consistency across all digital platforms.
- Support live coverage of events through social media (live tweeting, stories, real-time posting).
- Assist with email marketing and newsletter content.
- Possess sufficient research skills and experience.
- Media relations and offline media experience
REQUIREMENTS:
- Degree in Law, Mass Communication, Marketing & Digital Media.
- Strong writing, editing, video editing, and storytelling skills.
- Ability to create visually appealing content using relevant tools.
- Experience with social media management tools (e.g., Buffer, Hootsuite, Meta Business Suite).
- A passion for communications, branding, digital trends, and the ADR/legal space is advantageous.
WHAT WE OFFER:
- A professional and dynamic working environment.
- Mentorship and opportunities for learning and growth.
- A chance to build a strong portfolio and gain valuable experience in the legal and arbitration field.
TO APPLY:
Interested candidates should send a CV and a one-page suitability statement to Hr@nicarb.com
by Legalnaija | May 15, 2025 | Blawg, Directory
Are you looking to expand your reach, connect with potential clients, and strengthen your professional brand? The Legalnaija directory is your gateway to visibility, credibility, and growth in Nigeria’s legal industry.
Here’s why forward-thinking lawyers like you are renewing their subscription:
- Be Easily Discovered – Clients, businesses, and fellow professionals rely on Legalnaija to find the right lawyer. Stay visible to those who need your expertise!
- Gain Access to Legal Insights – Stay ahead with up-to-date legal resources, case law, and industry trends that keep you informed and competitive.
- Expand Your Client Base – Legalnaija connects lawyers to individuals and businesses seeking legal services, giving you a direct path to new clients.
- Boost Your Professional Branding – Your listing reinforces your credibility, positioning you as a trusted legal expert in Nigeria.
- Engage with the Legal Community – Network with peers, participate in discussions, and explore collaboration opportunities with fellow lawyers.
Don’t let your practice go unnoticed! Stay ahead by renewing your subscription today and keep unlocking the benefits of Legalnaija – the trusted directory for Nigeria’s legal professionals.
Visit Legalnaija now to subscribe and renew your subscription.
by Legalnaija | May 14, 2025 | Blawg
The legal landscape is constantly evolving, and staying ahead requires insightful discourse and collaboration. The *NBA Lagos Branch Annual Law Conference 2025* is set to be an extraordinary meeting of minds, bringing together some of Nigeria’s finest legal practitioners and thought leaders for an engaging and transformative experience.
A Stellar Lineup of Legal Titans
This year’s conference boasts an impressive panel featuring *distinguished personalities* who have left indelible marks on the legal profession and beyond:
– Osaro Eghobamien, SAN – Managing Partner, Perchstone & Graeys LP
– Yemi Candide-Johnson, SAN – Senior Partner, Strachan Partners; Convener, Justice Reform Project
– Mrs. Abimbola Akeredolu, SAN – Partner, Banwo & Ighodalo; Former Attorney General & Commissioner for Justice, Ogun State
– Mrs. Titi Akinlawon, SAN – Principal Partner, Akinlawon & Ajomo
– Mr. Austin Avuru – CEO, Seplat Petroleum Development Company
Dates and Venue
Taking place from *14th to 20th June 2025* at the prestigious *Muson Center, Onikan, Lagos*, this event promises to be a week-long immersion into cutting-edge legal insights, innovative discussions, and valuable networking opportunities.
Why You Should Attend
Beyond the intellectually stimulating sessions, this conference offers attendees a chance to engage with industry experts, debate pressing legal issues, and forge meaningful connections with colleagues and mentors alike. Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or an emerging legal mind, the NBA Lagos Law Conference 2025 is *where the future of law will be shaped*.
Register Now!
Don’t miss out—secure your spot today:
– *Members* – Register here https://nbalagos.gigo360.com/event/2025-nba-lagos-law-week/
– *Non-members* – Register here https://nbalagos.gigo360.com/event/2025-nba-lagos-law-week-non-members/
Let’s celebrate the art of advocacy and the future of the legal profession. *See you there!*
by Legalnaija | May 9, 2025 | Blawg
Yesterday, Reno Omokri made a post on his Facebook page stating how AI is rapidly taking over the lawyer’s job. He averred that AI is being used to make laws and give judgments in some parts of the world. Of course, no one is disputing that AI is a developing innovation and is here to stay, but Reno is overhyping the whole thing, which, as far as reality is concerned, is a mirage.
A Legal Practitioner, as defined under section (24) of the Legal Practitioners Act (2004), is a person entitled in accordance with the provisions of the Act to practice as a barrister and solicitor of the Supreme Court. For someone to be qualified to practice as a legal practitioner, section 2(1) of the Act provides that such a person must have his name on the Roll; otherwise, he cannot engage in any form of legal practice in Nigeria. To have one’s name on the Roll, section 7 of the Act prescribes that such a person must have been called to the Bar by the Body of Benchers and must produce a certificate of his call to the Bar to the Supreme Court Registrar. And for you to be called to the Bar, you must have had your LL.B Degree and BL certificate. The question now is: does AI have an LL.B. and BL certificate? Because Section 8(2) of the LPA also provides for a lawyer as the only person having the right of audience in all courts in Nigeria to represent clients; any other person cannot. That’s to say, an AI can’t go and move a motion or bail application in court without spending five years at the university pursuing an LL.B degree and another one year for BL at the Law School. Section 22(1)(b) of the Legal Practitioner Act specifically mentions some documents that are meant for lawyers to sign and not any other person, for example, instruments relating to immovable property.
Furthermore, Mr. Reno, you should note that the law is settled that it is only a legal practitioner that can prepare and sign court processes. Therefore, the signing of a court process by a person whose name is not on the Roll will render such a process incompetent. This has been given judicial blessing in the case of Adeneye v. Yaro (2013) 3 NWLR.
Let’s assume AI even prepared the brief you’re taking to court. Who will then sign it for it to be valid? An ‘AI Robert’? Of course not. It must be signed by a lawyer, or else your smart opposing counsel will cite the case of Okafor v. Nweke (2007) 10 NWLR to get rid of your worthless paper for lacking a lawyer’s signature. Court processes can be said to have been properly signed, Mr. Reno, if they fulfill the following, as per, Supreme Court:
- ‘The signature of Counsel, which may be in any form;
- The name of Counsel clearly written as indication of authorship of the signature;
- The name of the person(s) Counsel represents; and
- Name and address of the law firm under which Counsel practices as legal practitioner or solicitor/advocate of the Supreme Court of Nigeria.’
Any breach of the above is fundamental and will make the process suffer the fate of every incompetent brief, which is ‘striking out’. On this, I place reliance on the Supreme Court decision of SLB Consortium v. NNPC (2011) 9 NWLR.
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In addition, AI can’t replace the analytical skills, legal advocacy skills and deep thinking needed by lawyers. AI cannot build trust nor have the emotional intelligence to guide a client through the toughest moments of their lives, which is a skill required during client interviews. Practicing law requires human intelligence and emotion; after all, your clients are human too. Adaptability, cunning psychological techniques, as well as appealing to emotion, especially during cross-examination, are very sacrosanct, and AI doesn’t have all this.
Furthermore, you assert that ‘AI is being used to give judgment’. Do you think such judgment will be just and reasonable? Does AI have a sense of discernment? Let me briefly narrate an enriching court session I witnessed this week at the National Industrial Court, Kano Division. Monday was slated for the adoption of the final written addresses. The learned counsel filed a reply on point of law, and during the adoption, the counsel to the plaintiff, who’s a senior advocate, vehemently argued that National Industrial Court Rules don’t recognize any reply on point of law in a written address. Everyone in the court and the Learned Judge were in awe, but without citing any case nor section, My Lord asked the learned silk a simple question: ‘Learned silk, confirm to this Honourable Court that you have never filed a reply on point of law before [since you started practicing]?’ Learned silk replied with a coping smile on his face that he’s always a plaintiff, so he has never. Everyone burst out laughing, and the Judge said: ‘When I see you in court for adoption of final written address, I know you’re up to something, because you can allow your junior counsel to come a do the adoption, in anyway, learned silk, there is no way I can deny him a reply on point of law as it will go down to issue of fair hearing.’ And that was how the objection was overruled.
Please, if I may ask, can an AI Judge make the above erudite discernment? Don’t you think you think it will be swayed with the argument of the learned silk that National Industrial Court rules don’t allow reply on point of law, and which the NIC rule is actually silent about, and thereby deny the innocent learned counsel the opportunity to be heard?
Based on the foregoing, I end with the saying of my Senior Learning Colleague A.A. Abdulrauf: ‘As long as law remains a discipline, it cannot be approached just because one can speak English. AI will never replace lawyers; it will just be a tool to ease lawyers’ work.’ AI isn’t here to replace legal practitioners’ work but rather to change how they work. It is a tool to be used in legal research; even in that, it must be used consciously, as AI only knows the general principles of law but not its intricacies. It can also be used for drafting some legal instruments that have a generally acceptable sample across the globe or a region, but not for draftings to be taken to court. On this, I submit that, AI won’t eliminate the need for lawyers but will transform their roles. It can automate routine tasks, which will help lawyers spend more time on the human aspects of the role, such as client relationships and advocacy. I say no more!
Isah Bala Garba is a level 300 student from Faculty of Law, Bayero University, Kano. He can be reached for comments or corrections on: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/isah-bala-garba-301983276 isahbalagarba05@gmail.com or on 08100129131.
by Legalnaija | May 8, 2025 | Blawg
The Certificate of Advanced Studies in International Law and Diplomacy is back in 2025!
Date: July 21-25, 2025
Venue: Supreme Court of Nigeria, Abuja
Early Bird deadline: June 20, 2025
Building on the success of the previous editions, the @nigeria_ila, in partnership with @nialsorg invites you to register for the 2025 Certificate of Advanced Studies in International Law and Diplomacy.
The course exposes participants to the specialised knowledge and skillsets required in the practice of international law and diplomacy. The course provides an in-depth examination of the core sources and principles of international law, the practical challenges that limit their effective design and implementation, especially in the context of developing economies, as well as the innovative approaches and skillsets required to negotiate win-win international instruments in an increasingly globalized world.
The course will hold at the Supreme Court of Nigeria, Abuja from July 21-25, 2025.
Early Bird rates end on 20 June, 2025
Register here to elevate your career and benefit from the early bird rates: https://ilanigeria.org.ng/casil
