AI & Publishing: Dr. John Asein Explores the Future of Content Creation and Copyright At NPA 2024 Conference

AI AND PUBLISHING: DR. JOHN ASEIN EXPLORES THE FUTURE OF CONTENT CREATION AND COPYRIGHT AT NPA 2024 CONFERENCE

By Wole Adedoyin:

The 2024 annual conference of the Nigerian Publishers Association (NPA) was graced by a thought-provoking keynote address delivered by Dr. John Asein, Director-General of the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC). Titled "Publishing in the Age of Artificial Intelligence: Exploring the Future of Content Creation, Delivery, and Copyright," Dr. Asein's speech explored the dynamic interplay between human creativity and artificial intelligence (AI) in reshaping the publishing industry. 

In his opening remarks, Dr. Asein set the tone by showcasing AI's potential to influence content creation. He recounted his experiment with ChatGPT, which generated a Soyinka-inspired poem titled "Whispers of the Loom" within seconds. He posed critical questions: "What does the future hold for creativity, authenticity, and intellectual property rights in the face of AI advancements?"

Dr. Asein stressed the revolutionary implications of generative AI, which enables the rapid creation of literary content, music, translations, and even sculptures. He noted the transformative effect of AI-assisted tools in reducing time and cost in publishing processes such as editing, indexing, and translation, while cautioning that these advancements raise complex ethical and legal questions. 

"AI challenges the traditional concepts of authorship and originality," he stated, "forcing us to rethink copyright frameworks. If AI generates two identical works for different users, how do we address claims of plagiarism or originality?" He also emphasized the necessity for publishers to balance technological efficiency with the preservation of human creativity. 

Dr. Asein traced the history of disruptive innovations, likening the AI revolution to the impact of the printing press in the 15th century, which democratized book production but also gave rise to intellectual property disputes. "Every revolution—agricultural, industrial, or informational—has disrupted societal norms. The intelligence revolution, marked by machines that learn and adapt, demands an equally transformative approach to governance," he argued. 

Highlighting the role of pioneers like John Hopfield and Geoffrey Hinton, winners of the 2024 Nobel Prize in Physics, Dr. Asein acknowledged their foundational work in machine learning. He described AI as a double-edged sword: capable of enhancing productivity while threatening the livelihood of traditional content creators. 

In addressing the legal landscape, Dr. Asein identified the tension between AI developers and copyright holders. The training of AI models often involves using copyrighted material, raising questions about fair use and licensing. He urged stakeholders to collaborate on establishing ethical and equitable frameworks to protect intellectual property. 

Dr. Asein's address also acknowledged the broader socio-economic implications of AI. He cited examples of AI's integration into healthcare, transportation, and education, emphasizing the need for developing nations like Nigeria to adopt policies that ensure equitable access to AI technologies. "We must not only protect our creative industries but also empower them to compete globally," he added. 

The keynote concluded with a call to action for publishers, authors, and policymakers to embrace the AI revolution while safeguarding the core values of creativity and originality. Dr. Asein stressed the importance of education and awareness in equipping future generations to navigate the challenges and opportunities of AI-driven publishing. 

The conference featured panel discussions and workshops that delved deeper into the themes of the keynote. Participants included authors, publishers, legal experts, and AI innovators, all contributing to a robust dialogue on the future of the industry. 

The Nigerian Publishers Association, in its closing remarks, applauded Dr. Asein's insights, describing them as a roadmap for aligning technological advancements with the preservation of cultural heritage and intellectual property. 

As the publishing world grapples with the complexities of AI, the 2024 NPA Conference has set the stage for meaningful engagement and collaboration, positioning Nigeria as a thought leader in the global conversation on AI and intellectual property.

NPA Charts Path for AI-Driven Publishing at 2024 Annual Conference

 

NIGERIAN PUBLISHERS ASSOCIATION CHARTS PATH FOR AI-DRIVEN PUBLISHING AT 2024 ANNUAL CONFERENCE

By Wole Adedoyin

The Nigerian Publishers Association (NPA) held its 2024 Annual Conference and Annual General Meeting (AGM) yesterday at the Lagos Airport Hotel, Ikeja. The event, which marked the fourth in the series under the leadership of Sir (Chief) Uchenna Cyril Anioke, Ph.D., FPIN, FICMC, brought together key stakeholders in Nigeria’s publishing industry and other distinguished guests.

Delivering the welcome address, Chief Anioke highlighted the progress made by the association since his administration's inauguration on December 4, 2020. Reflecting on previous conferences, he described them as milestones in addressing the challenges of the publishing sector. “Each conference theme was chosen to tackle pressing industry concerns,” he noted, referencing themes from past years that tackled economic sustainability, the impact of digital transformation, and the revitalization of local paper production.

For 2024, the conference theme, “Publishing in the Age of Artificial Intelligence: Exploring the Future of Content Creation, Delivery, and Copyright,” was a timely choice. Chief Anioke emphasized the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in publishing while also acknowledging the challenges it poses. He encouraged participants to engage actively in discussions about adopting AI technology to enhance content creation, improve delivery systems, and protect copyright.

The keynote speaker, Dr. John Asein, the Director-General of the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC), was commended for his expertise in intellectual property and anti-piracy. Chief Anioke expressed enthusiasm for Dr. Asein’s insights, describing him as a “legal luminary and intellectual property icon.” Supporting the discussions were a panel of experts, including Mr. David Oluwagbami, Dr. (Mrs.) Chika Yinka-Banjo, and Engr. Ifeanyi Avajah, who explored the multifaceted implications of AI in the publishing sector.

The conference was chaired by Alhaji Razak Jaiyeola, a renowned chartered accountant and past president of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN). The Special Guest of Honour, Lagos State Governor, His Excellency Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, was lauded for his contributions to education in the state, particularly in reducing the number of out-of-school children and promoting quality learning.

During his address, Chief Anioke reiterated the association's longstanding calls for federal government intervention in critical areas affecting the industry. These include involving publishers in curriculum reforms, reviving moribund paper mills, and fostering policies that encourage the production of books in indigenous languages. “The current practice of excluding publishers from curriculum development is unacceptable and amounts to intellectual sabotage,” he asserted.

Chief Anioke also appealed for greater private-sector investment in paper production to reduce reliance on imports, thereby addressing foreign exchange pressures and capital flight. He called on the government to work with the publishing sector to ensure sustainable practices and promote local content production.

The event also served as a platform to celebrate the association's achievements, including the establishment of a permanent secretariat after 55 years. Chief Anioke credited the foresight of his predecessors, particularly the last executive council led by Gbadega Adadepo, for securing the land that made the project possible.

As NPA approaches its 60th anniversary next year, Chief Anioke expressed profound gratitude to the association's founding fathers, past presidents, and members for their unwavering commitment. He also acknowledged the invaluable contributions of partners such as the African Publishers Network (APNET) and the International Publishers Association (IPA) in amplifying Nigeria's voice in global publishing.

The association extended special thanks to corporate sponsors, including Clean Life Nigeria Ltd., Nixin Paper Mills and Everest Pulp and Paper Ltd., for their financial support. Chief Anioke also praised the 2024 AGM Planning Committee, led by Vice President Alhaji Dauda Lukman, for organizing a successful event.

The conference concluded with a resounding appreciation for educators, students, and members of the press, whose participation stressed the importance of the publishing industry to national development. Chief Anioke reaffirmed NPA’s commitment to driving growth and innovation in the sector, emphasizing collaboration as the key to future success.

“Long live the NPA! Long live Lagos State! Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria!” he proclaimed as he brought his address to a close, setting an optimistic tone for the association’s future endeavors.

NPA Annual Conference 2024: Sanwo-Olu, Asein, Anioke, Jaiyeola to Shape the Future of Publishing

 

 

NPA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 2024: SANWO-OLU, ASEIN, ANIOKE, JAIYEOLA TO SHAPE THE FUTURE OF PUBLISHING

By Wole Adedoyin

The Nigerian Publishers Association (NPA) has announced its highly anticipated 2024 Annual Conference and General Meeting, set to take place on Thursday, November 28, and Friday, November 29, 2024, at the Lagos Airport Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos. This prestigious event will bring together industry leaders, policymakers, and experts to discuss the rapidly evolving publishing landscape.

Themed "Publishing in the Age of Artificial Intelligence: Exploring the Future of Content Creation, Delivery, and Copyright," the conference will provide a platform to explore the profound impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the publishing industry. With the presence of notable personalities like Lagos State Governor, HE Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and Dr. John Asein, Director General of the Nigerian Copyright Commission, the event promises to be both insightful and transformative.

Dr. John Asein will deliver the keynote address, setting the tone for the two-day deliberations. His expertise in copyright and intellectual property rights will provide a critical framework for understanding AI's implications for content creation and protection in the digital era.

A distinguished panel discussion will follow the keynote, featuring thought leaders such as Mr. David Oluwagbami, Senior Research Fellow at the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (UNILAG); Dr. Chika Yinka-Banjo of UNILAG's Department of Computer Science; and Engr. Ifeanyi Avajah, former Chairman of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), Lagos State. Together, they will unpack the complexities of integrating AI into publishing practices while safeguarding creative rights.

His Excellency, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Executive Governor of Lagos State, will attend as the Special Guest of Honour. His participation stressed the importance of the publishing industry in fostering socio-economic growth in Lagos State and Nigeria as a whole. Chief Uchenna Cyril Anioke, Ph.D., the President/Chairman-in-Council of the NPA, will serve as the Chief Host.

Adding further depth to the event, Alhaji Razak Jaiyeola, FCA, former President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) and Chief Consultant at A.J. Silicon, will serve as Chairman of the conference. His extensive professional background will enrich discussions and inspire participants.

The conference agenda includes interactive sessions on critical topics such as AI-driven content creation, digital copyright challenges, and strategies for publishers to remain competitive in a tech-driven world. These sessions will equip participants with actionable insights and tools to navigate the changing publishing landscape effectively.

In addition to intellectual discussions, the event offers invaluable networking opportunities for authors, publishers, content creators, and other stakeholders to connect, collaborate, and innovate. It aims to strengthen ties within the publishing community while addressing shared challenges.

The NPA invites publishers, authors, journalists, educators, and anyone with a vested interest in the future of publishing to attend. This event represents a unique opportunity to engage with leading voices in the industry and shape the future of publishing in Nigeria and beyond.

For more information or to register, contact the Nigerian Publishers Association via email at info@nigerianpublishers.com or nigerianpublishers@ymail.com. Additional details are available on the official website at www.nigerianpublishers.com.ng.

The conference begins at 10:00 AM on Thursday, November 28, 2024. Join us at the Lagos Airport Hotel for this groundbreaking exploration of publishing in the age of AI!

For media inquiries, please contact: 08039177779  

Adwinsa Publications Celebrates World Children’s Day 2024 with ‘The Future of the Children’ Event

*ADWINSA PUBLICATIONS HOSTS "THE FUTURE OF THE CHILDREN" TO MARK WORLD CHILDREN'S DAY 2024* 

Adwinsa Publications, in collaboration with Ibadan Book Club, celebrated World Children’s Day 2024 with a highly engaging and impactful event titled *‘The Future of the Children.’* The program took place at the Oyo State Library Board, opposite Cocoa House, Ibadan, and aimed to inspire and empower children to dream big despite societal challenges.  

The event, which commenced at 10:30 am, witnessed the participation of students from Ibadan Boys High School, St. Paul Anglican School, and Sunshine International High School. Dignitaries in attendance included the State Librarian; Mr. Fakunle Busayo, CEO of Hope Alive Children Consult; and Mr. Olumofe Jacob of Raypower Media. The event was moderated by Mr. Adeleke of Rosy Touch Media and Art.  

In her welcome address, Mrs. Ayobami Odunyemi introduced Adwinsa Publications, highlighting the organization's commitment to promoting education and children’s development across Ghana and Nigeria. She emphasized the need to nurture children’s dreams despite the challenging socio-economic realities.  

During the event, the speakers encouraged children to pursue their dreams with resilience and determination. They also stressed the importance of education and personal discipline in achieving greatness. the speakers highlighted the roles of families, governments, and society in shaping the future of children and emphasized the need for a collective effort to safeguard their well-being.  

A key highlight of the program was a reading session featuring the book *‘Adama.’* Students from Ibadan Boys High School and Sunshine International High School read the first two chapters of the book, followed by an interactive discussion that deepened their understanding of its themes.  

The event also featured various creative performances that showcased the talents of the participating students. Ibadan Boys High School presented a captivating drama, while students from all three schools recited thought-provoking poems. Arike Elewi entertained the audience with an impressive Yoruba *Ewi* rendition.  

Mr. Fakunle Busayo, CEO of Hope Alive Educational Consultancy delivered the keynote lecture, which focused on the urgent need to prioritize children’s rights and well-being. He called for deliberate efforts from stakeholders to address the pressing challenges faced by children, particularly in Nigeria, such as poverty, poor access to education, and the threat of violence.  

World Children’s Day, celebrated annually on November 20, aims to promote children’s rights and raise awareness about their well-being. The 2024 theme, *‘Listen to the Future,’* served as a clarion call for stakeholders to take action to secure the future of children globally.  

During the event, discussions highlighted the plight of children in conflict zones like Gaza, where education and basic amenities are severely disrupted, and in Nigeria, where many children face hunger, abuse, and lack of access to education.  

Speakers emphasized the importance of family upbringing, societal values, and government policies in ensuring a brighter future for children. They urged families to instill discipline and education in their children, while governments were encouraged to create enabling environments for children to thrive and protect their rights through robust policy implementation.  

Mrs. Ayobami Odunyemi presented several titles from Adwinsa Publications, including *‘Kidnappers in Action,’* *‘Break of Dawn,’* and *‘Adama.’* She encouraged schools and dignitaries to purchase the books to support children’s education. Many attendees, including school representatives, expressed interest in acquiring copies for their libraries and classrooms.  

The event concluded with the presentation of gifts to the participating schools, including notepads, Adwinsa Publications titles, and other educational materials. This gesture stressed Adwinsa Publications’ commitment to fostering learning and creativity among children.  

The program ended at 1:30 pm with a closing prayer and a memorable group photograph involving all participants.  

Adwinsa Publications and Ibadan Book Club have once again demonstrated their dedication to supporting children’s growth and development. The event not only celebrated World Children’s Day but also inspired the children to dream and strive for a better future while calling on all stakeholders to play their roles effectively.

Hon. Medinat Adeyemo Congratulates Minister Hannatu Musa Musawa On Her Birthday

 HON. MEDINAT TEMITOPE ADEYEMO CONGRATULATES MINISTER HANNATU MUSA MUSAWA ON HER 50TH BIRTHDAY

Hon. Medinat Temitope Adeyemo, politician, philanthropist and esteemed Founder of the Medinat Adeyemo Foundation has congratulated the Honourable Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, on the occasion of her 50th birthday.

In a statement released today, Hon. Adeyemo celebrated the Minister’s dedication to cultural and creative advancement, recognizing her valuable contributions to the Ministry and beyond.

The press statement emphasized Minister Musawa’s impactful tenure, which has breathed new life into the sectors under her guidance, invigorating both the art and tourism landscapes of Nigeria. Hon. Adeyemo praised the Minister’s focus on preserving and promoting Nigeria's cultural heritage, expressing admiration for Musawa’s strategic vision in enhancing the nation’s reputation on the global stage.

Hon. Adeyemo further highlighted Minister Musawa’s commitment to inclusivity and empowerment, noting how her leadership has opened doors for local artists, artisans, and cultural custodians to thrive. According to Adeyemo, Musawa’s influence has brought Nigeria’s rich heritage into international conversations, enriching the global perception of the country's cultural identity.

In her congratulatory message, Hon. Adeyemo described Minister Musawa as a "champion for the arts and a visionary leader," whose work has set a new standard for leadership in creative sectors. She remarked on how Musawa’s initiatives have inspired young Nigerians, fostering a sense of pride and engagement within the creative economy that has strengthened community bonds and encouraged cultural preservation.

As a philanthropist, Hon. Adeyemo has consistently worked to support cultural and educational initiatives herself and expressed her joy at seeing a leader like Musawa champion similar causes on a national scale. She noted that Musawa’s enduring dedication serves as a source of motivation for all Nigerians who aspire to build a vibrant and inclusive creative industry.

Reflecting on the Minister’s achievements, Hon. Adeyemo acknowledged her courage and resilience, which have guided her efforts to secure sustainable growth within her Ministry. She commended Musawa’s skillful balance of promoting Nigeria’s traditional values while embracing innovation, which she believes has created opportunities for the next generation of Nigerian creatives.

Hon. Adeyemo also took the opportunity to recognize the personal attributes that make Musawa a respected leader and friend. "Her empathy, strength, and unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s cultural and economic advancement are exemplary," she stated, wishing the Minister a year filled with even greater successes.

In her closing remarks, Hon. Adeyemo urged Nigerians to join her in celebrating Minister Hannatu Musa Musawa's legacy of dedication, which she hopes will continue to inspire future leaders. She encouraged other stakeholders to support the Minister’s vision, which she believes holds tremendous potential for Nigeria’s socio-economic growth.

Hon. Adeyemo ended her statement with a message of goodwill, praying for more years of wisdom, strength, and fulfillment for the Minister. She expressed confidence that Musawa’s next chapter would bring even greater achievements and thanked her for her selfless service.