A group known as Waka Community International Foundation has raised concern about the unauthorised use of its slogans, coinages, and brand imagery by individuals and communities not legally or authentically associated with the organisation.

The foundation, in a public notice, reasserted its legal rights and brand ownership, emphasising the need to protect the integrity of its identity, intellectual property, and operations across borders.

Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Lorenz Mba, disclosed that Waka Community’s intellectual property is fully protected under Nigerian and international copyright law.

“The foundation holds Copyright Certificate No LW 1000, issued by the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) on September 22, 2021, and enjoys extended global protection through the Berne Convention, which covers 179 countries.

“While we recognise that imitation may be a form of flattery, we also acknowledge the necessity of protecting and preserving our assets and brand equity.”

“Our legal team will not overlook actions that infringe on the Waka brand – a shining symbol of Nigerian innovation and a vehicle of soft power diplomacy,” Mba warned.

He added that preventing the dilution of the Waka brand remains a cardinal obligation of its Board of Trustees and officers. He described such protection as vital to maintaining the credibility of a wellness organisation that began in Nigeria and now boasts over 58,000 members across 48 countries.

Mba further explained that the foundation’s incorporation with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) strengthens its standing under the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA), securing its legal recognition as a registered nonprofit entity.

He added that the foundation’s growth – anchored on wellness advocacy promoting daily walks, balanced nutrition, hydration, adequate rest, and muscle-strengthening routines reflects Nigeria’s leadership in community health innovation.