To ensure a credible, orderly, and transparent Board Election, the Musical Copyright Society Nigeria (MCSN) has issued clear procedures for submitting valid nominations.
This article serves as a practical how-to guide, helping members complete the nomination process correctly and avoid common errors that may lead to disqualification
Overview of the MCSN Board Nomination Process
Board nominations must strictly comply with MCSN’s Constitution, Articles of Association, and approved election guidelines. Only nominations that meet all procedural, eligibility, and documentation requirements will be accepted.
Step 1: Confirm Candidate Eligibility
Before completing any forms, confirm that the proposed candidate:
- Is a member of MCSN in good standing
- Meets the membership tenure requirements for their category
- Is eligible for the specific Board position being sought (composer/writer or publisher)
Submitting a nomination for an ineligible candidate will automatically invalidate the application.
Step 2: Identify Two Qualified Nominators
Each nomination must be supported by two (2) nominators, who must also meet eligibility requirements.
Nominator Requirements
- Must be MCSN members in good standing
- Must meet the minimum membership tenure for the category involved
- For writer/composer nominations: nominators must typically have at least two (2) years of membership
- Must not be under any disciplinary or compliance restriction
Nominations without qualified nominators will not be processed.
Step 3: Complete the Directors’ Nomination Form
All required sections of the official Directors’ Nomination Form must be completed accurately.
Information Typically Required Includes:
- Full name of the candidate
- Membership category (Composer/Writer or Publisher)
- Contact address and details
- Musical genre or professional focus
- Details of nominators
- Declaration of eligibility and consent to serve
Incomplete or inconsistent information may result in rejection.
Step 4: Attach Supporting Documentation
Each nomination must be accompanied by the required supporting documents, which may include:
- Proof of membership and tenure
- Evidence of qualifying category (composer/writer or publisher)
- Proof of nomination fee payment (where applicable)
- Any additional documentation stipulated in the election guidelines
All documents should be clear, legible, and verifiable.
Step 5: Submit Before the Deadline
Completed nomination forms and all supporting documents must be submitted to the MCSN office no later than:
Friday, 23 January 2026 — 5:00 PM
Late submissions will not be accepted under any circumstances. Members are advised to submit early to allow time for review and correction if necessary.
Submission and Confirmation
Upon submission:
- Nominations will be reviewed and verified by the appropriate body
- Valid nominations will be acknowledged
- The list of qualified candidates will be published following verification, ahead of the election
Only verified candidates will proceed to election or ratification.
Candidate Eligibility: Who Can Be Nominated?
Candidates are categorized to ensure professional representation across the board. The requirements vary based on your membership class:
A. Writers, Composers, and Performers
Membership Tenure: Must have been a member for a minimum of two (2) years.
Catalog Requirement: Candidates must possess a significant and verifiable catalog of musical works registered with MCSN.
Genre Representation: We are specifically seeking leaders across Juju, Fuji, Gospel, Reggae, High Life, Hip Hop, and other contemporary genres.
B. Publishers and Record Labels
Membership Tenure: A minimum of one (1) year of active membership.
Exploitation Focus: Candidates must demonstrate active and successful exploitation of their music catalogs.
Financial Requirements: Nomination Fees
As part of the nomination process, the following non-refundable nomination fees apply:
Writers / Composers: ₦150,000
Publishers: ₦250,000
Payment of the appropriate fee is mandatory and does not guarantee election. It only validates the submission of a nomination for consideration.
Documentation & Constitutional Checklist
Before submitting your nomination, ensure you have the following ready:
The Directors’ Nomination Form: Fully completed and signed.
Dual Sponsorship: Every nomination must be endorsed by two (2) nominators who themselves have been members for at least two years.
Compliance with Article 35: All nominations must align with the Society’s Articles of Association.
Essential Election Dates
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Nomination Deadline | Friday, 23 January 2026 (5:00 PM) |
| Publication of Candidates | To be announced following verification |
| General Council (Board) Election | Wednesday, 18 March 2026 |
Become a Member of MCSN
Joining MCSN is the most important step toward earning performance royalties. Membership authorises MCSN to license, collect, and distribute royalties for your musical works and sound recordings.
Register Your Works
Once registered as a member, ensure that all compositions and recordings are properly submitted. Accurate work registration enables MCSN to track usage and distribute royalties correctly.
