By Idris Alooma

As the world commemorated the World Copyright Day on April 23, Postgraduate Coordinator for the Institute of Translation Arts, University of Ilorin, Dr Samiat Olubunmi Abubakre, has urged governments to strengthen laws protecting intellectual property owners.

Dr Abubakre, who is also a member of UNILORIN FM Radio Board, made this call while featuring on the radio station’s popular Yoruba programme, ‘Oro to n lo’, anchored by the Station Manager UNILORIN FM radio, Mr Idris Alooma.

She emphasised the importance of acknowledging the rightful owners of creative works, including music, books, films, and photographs, among others, noting that this not only gives recognition to the creators but also popularises their work, protects their intellectual property, and provides economic benefits.

The scholar highlighted the need for balance in copyright laws, pointing out that while they shield creators, they shouldn’t limit others’ access to valuable knowledge. She cited the efforts of the University of Ilorin in detecting plagiarism as an example of promoting academic integrity.

Dr  Abubakre stressed the need for lecturers, in this era of Artificial Intelligence, to be vigilant and enhance their research to prevent awarding certificates for plagiarised works. She praised the University of Ilorin’s internal mechanisms for detecting plagiarism.

The don also raised concerns about the frequent changes in textbooks used in primary and secondary schools, calling on curriculum developers and education policymakers to relax these laws to alleviate the financial burden on parents. The commemoration of World Copyright Day serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting intellectual property globally, as enacted by the United Nations.