Nigerian SEC Unveils New Digital Asset Rules, Compliance

As a seasoned crypto investor with experience in the Nigerian digital asset market, I’m encouraged by the recent regulatory updates from the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). With my hard-earned investments at stake, I appreciate the SEC’s commitment to establishing a robust framework that addresses the unique challenges of digital assets.


The Nigerian Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has recently updated the rules governing the issuance of digital assets, the operation of offering platforms, digital exchanges, and custody services in Nigeria.

In a public announcement, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) expressed its plan to update the existing regulations in order to create a stronger regulatory structure specifically designed for the complexities of digital asset markets.

The new regulatory framework introduces an innovative program called ARIP (Accelerated Regulatory Incubation Programme), tailored to assist virtual asset service providers (VASPs) in navigating the regulatory landscape more efficiently.

VASPs can follow a well-defined route provided by this software to ensure they adhere to the latest regulatory requirements set by the SEC. The regulatory body has streamlined the registration process, which is available via their ePortal, highlighting the significance of prompt compliance. It’s essential for VASPs to finish the registration within thirty days following the release of the circular.

The SEC’s announcement came with a clear message of consequences for non-compliance. The commission reaffirmed its determination to regulate any Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) that fail to adhere to the new guidelines. This unwavering stance highlights the SEC’s dedication to maintaining regulatory order within the digital asset industry.

Following Emomotimi Agama’s recent appointment as Director-General of the SEC, new regulations have been proposed. These modifications expand upon the initial Rules on Digital Assets Issuance, Offering Platforms, Exchange, and Custody, introduced in May 2022. This proactive move signifies an effort to adjust regulatory frameworks to accommodate the rapidly changing digital asset marketplace.

As a researcher studying the developments in Nigeria’s digital asset markets, I have observed the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) taking significant steps to strengthen regulatory transparency and oversight. These measures aim to establish a well-defined and monitored framework that fosters innovation while prioritizing investor protection. In essence, the SEC is working diligently to ensure digital asset market operations align with clearly established guidelines.

Read More

2024-06-21 23:16