Quidax Gets First Nigerian SEC License for Crypto Exchange

As a seasoned crypto investor with roots deeply entrenched in Africa, particularly Nigeria, I can’t help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation about the recent regulatory developments. Having navigated the uncharted waters of cryptocurrency investing in this region, I’ve seen firsthand the potential for growth and innovation that exists here.


In simpler terms, the Nigerian Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has issued its first temporary operating permit to Quidax, a cryptocurrency trading platform based in Africa. This move marks a major milestone as it signals the beginning of formal acknowledgement and regulatory supervision for Nigeria’s digital asset sector.

Quidax Gets First Nigerian SEC License for Crypto Exchange

Based on the article, Quidax’s Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) license allows them to function as a legally recognized cryptocurrency exchange within Nigeria. In their own words, this approval serves as a significant advantage for the Nigerian crypto community, fostering further innovation and expansion in the sector.

Buchi Okoro, the co-founder and CEO of Quidax, commended the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), particularly Emomotimi Agama, for promptly taking actions aimed at reestablishing order, building trust, and ensuring investor protection within Nigeria’s rapidly growing cryptocurrency market. With this regulatory license obtained from the SEC, Quidax is now authorized to engage with banks and other financial institutions, but will still need to secure additional approval from the Central Bank of Nigeria.

This license applies following the SEC’s comprehensive rule adjustment that took effect on June 21. The updated rules now encompass guidelines for the issuance of digital assets, operating platforms for offerings, exchange procedures, and safekeeping.

As a researcher, I’m excited about one crucial aspect of this regulatory overhaul – the creation of the Accelerated Regulatory Incubation Programme. This program is designed specifically to support virtual asset service providers like myself in navigating and adhering to the latest regulatory norms, making the transition smoother and more manageable.

Contrary to initial concerns that stringent licensing conditions might limit the count of domestic cryptocurrency trading platforms, Quidax’s prosperity indicates a promising outlook for the sector with this revised framework.

The Nigerian Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) mandates cryptocurrency trading platforms and digital asset marketplaces to hold an initial capital of at least 500 million naira (approximately $556,620). Additionally, they must have a Fidelity Insurance Bond that covers at least one-quarter of the required minimum paid-up capital.

In simple terms, Nigeria, known as Africa’s economic giant, regularly places high on worldwide cryptocurrency usage charts. A study revealed that Nigeria boasts the world’s most knowledgeable populace regarding cryptocurrencies. Furthermore, according to Chainalysis’ 2023 report, Nigeria ranks second globally in terms of cryptocurrency adoption among 154 countries, highlighting its significant influence within the international digital asset marketplace.

Although there’s been a significant uptake, foreign investment in cryptocurrencies within Nigeria has been relatively slow compared to other regions. However, with the introduction of a new regulatory framework and Quidax obtaining a provisional license, there’s a strong possibility that this situation could improve. This is because such measures will foster a more secure atmosphere, establish formality within the crypto sector, and potentially pave the way for similar actions among other platforms.

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2024-08-29 23:17