A bold step forward in the fight against piracy and the push for stronger protections for literary professionals.


This past week BLAPAN – Better Life for Authors and Publishers Association of Nigeria (BLAPAN – formally inaugurated its first National Executive Council in a well-attended ceremony at Moakland Plaza, Ikeja.

The event signified a bold step forward in the fight against piracy and the push for stronger protections for literary professionals.

From Advocacy to Official Recognition

Originally founded as the Nigerian Council of Authors Against Piracy (NCAP), BLAPAN underwent three years of restructuring before its official registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission late last year.

The rebranding reflects a broader mission – not just combating piracy but also fostering collaboration, professional development, and policy influence within Nigeria’s creative economy.

Leadership with a Vision

In his inaugural address National President Feyi Abiodun vowed to unite the association, empower members, and intensify the battle against intellectual property theft.

“The bitter experiences authors and publishers have endured at the hands of pirates will no longer be our silent reality,” he declared. “We will engage government agencies, particularly in Lagos State, to secure protections for our works and better welfare for our members.”

A Unified Front for Change

Despite heavy rainfall, the event drew authors, publishers, and industry stakeholders, all eager to witness this turning point. Newly appointed executives echoed Abiodun’s sentiments, pledging collective action to strengthen Nigeria’s publishing ecosystem.

If the press release sentiments are to be believed, optimism abounds. The association represents long-awaited structural support for Nigeria’s literary professionals, offering hope for a future where creativity is both protected and prosperous.

Time will tell on that one.

Meanwhile, spare a thought for the lost lives in the floods now sweeping across Nigeria as the monsoon season takes hold.

This post first appeared in the TNPS LinkedIn newsfeed.