EFCC NCC piracy collaboration deepens as both agencies warn that IP theft now fuels money laundering, drugs and terror networks in the South East

EFCC NCC piracy concerns have intensified as both agencies vowed to strengthen their joint offensive against intellectual property theft and its growing links to money laundering, drug networks and terror financing in the South East.

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The renewed commitment followed a visit by the Enugu State Coordinator of the Nigerian Copyright Commission, Macfoy Akachukwu, to the EFCC Enugu Zonal Director, CE Daniel Isei.

Akachukwu said piracy had evolved into a sophisticated criminal pipeline that now enables offenders to clean proceeds of international drug crimes through the mass production of pirated books and creative works.

He noted that individuals travel abroad, engage in drug activity, then channel the illicit funds into producing counterfeit copies of major publishers’ works which are shipped into Nigeria, effectively laundering the proceeds.

He added that the NCC continues to depend on EFCC facilities, asset recovery tools and investigative support when tackling these syndicates.

Akachukwu appealed for continued assistance, saying the relationship between both agencies had been valuable and must be further consolidated for a more effective clampdown on offenders.

Responding, Isei described piracy as a predicate offence to money laundering and warned that its economic damage is broad and severe.

He said the EFCC is ready to deepen intelligence sharing, operational support and joint investigations, stressing that a resilient economy requires firm action against intellectual property theft.

He added that the commission remains committed to collaboration, calling it one of the agency’s strongest values.

Isei assured that the EFCC will stand firmly with the NCC to strengthen enforcement and dismantle the criminal networks exploiting pirated works for financial gain.

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The agencies’ renewed synergy reflects a strategic shift to treat piracy not just as a copyright violation but as part of a larger financial crime ecosystem, making their intensified cooperation both necessary and powerful.