MCSN Moves to Transparent Royalty Distribution

MCSN to phase out general royalty distribution from 2026, introducing a fair, technology-driven system to ensure transparency and equitable payouts.

The Musical Copyright Society Nigeria Ltd/Gte (MCSN) has announced plans to phase out general royalty distributions to members starting from 2026, signalling a move towards a more transparent and equitable system.

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In a circular dated November 27, CEO Mayo Ayilaran stated that the decision follows the Society’s acquisition of technology to track, analyse, and distribute royalties based on actual usage of musical works and sound recordings, rather than the previous general distribution method.

“Over the years, MCSN, due to lack of necessary technology and program or broadcast logs from users of music, distributed royalties based on the best judgment of management. With the acquisition of required technology, general distribution will give way to a scheme that is equitable, transparent, and beyond dispute,” the statement read.

The shift from general distribution, in which most members receive the same amount, to specific distribution based on logs and reports from licensees, is designed to better reflect actual usage and reward members accordingly.

Ayilaran urged members to prioritise registering and updating their works on MCSN’s platforms, either via the website or through the Membership department, to ensure they benefit from the new distribution system.

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The Society emphasised that while previous distributions have demonstrated growth in membership and royalty collection, the technological upgrade will provide a fairer, scientifically informed allocation of royalties in future exercises.