In March 2025, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu signed into law the Investments and Securities Act (ISA) 2025, officially recognising digital assets including cryptocurrencies as securities under Nigerian legislation. This landmark move ends years of uncertainty and lays down a solid legal framework for crypto operations in the country.
A legislative turning point: The ISA 2025
Replacing the outdated 2007 law, the ISA 2025 brings Nigeria’s financial regulatory landscape into sync with the demands of a modern digital economy. By classifying digital assets as securities, it places oversight responsibility on the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), which now plays a central role in supervising the crypto industry.
This change builds on the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) late-2023 decision to lift the ban on crypto transactions, signaling a more open, progressive stance. Together, these moves offer a comprehensive and structured regulatory setting for digital asset activities.
Opportunities in Nigeria’s crypto sector
Fintech Growth
The clarity provided by ISA 2025 positions Nigeria as a potential hub for fintech innovation. A regulated environment fosters job creation, encourages foreign investment, and enables the launch of new financial services and products.
Boosting Financial Inclusion
Digital assets could help extend financial services to Nigeria’s unbanked population, allowing broader participation in formal economic structures and improving financial literacy over time.
Cross-Border Payments and Remittances
With Nigeria being a top destination for remittances in Africa, cryptocurrencies offer a more efficient, lower-cost option for international money transfers, benefiting both senders and recipients.
This regulatory recognition is expected to drive growth in the country’s digital economy. As confidence builds, more institutional investors and financial firms may step into the space, lending further credibility and momentum to the sector.
Still, the path forward isn’t without hurdles. Regulatory compliance, anti-fraud measures, and systemic financial stability will all demand continuous collaboration among government bodies, industry leaders, and the wider crypto community.
The recognition of cryptocurrencies in Nigeria through the ISA 2025 marks a pivotal moment for Nigeria’s embrace of the digital asset era. With regulation now in place, the country is better positioned to leverage the benefits of blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies. By providing a clear regulatory framework, Nigeria is not only embracing the future of finance but also unlocking opportunities for innovation, inclusion, and economic development.
What does this mean for you as a Nigerian crypto user?
1. You Can Now Buy and Trade Crypto with Regulatory Clarity
As long as you’re using a platform that complies with SEC rules, you now have clearer regulatory guidance. Platforms like Remitano already operate with full transparency and strong KYC/AML practices positioning them well under the new regulatory framework.
2. You’re More Protected from Scams
One of the biggest problems in the past was the rise of Ponzi schemes and fake crypto projects. With regulation in place, the SEC has more power to shut down illegal actors and you get safer access to real crypto.
3. You Can Withdraw and Use Crypto for Real-Life Needs
With the ban lifted and regulation in place, you can now use crypto more freely to send money abroad, receive payments, or even withdraw to naira. That’s exactly where Remitano stands out making it easy for everyday Nigerians to deposit, trade, and withdraw securely.
The future of crypto in Nigeria looks bright
With regulation now in place, Nigeria is poised to become a true crypto leader in Africa. Expect to see:
- More fintechs adding crypto payment rails
- Global exchanges entering the Nigerian market (with regulatory compliance)
- Businesses accepting stablecoins like USDT for real estate, tuition, and e-commerce
- Everyday users using platforms like Remitano to power their savings, remittances, and hustles.
The regulatory recognition of cryptocurrency in Nigeria is more than a policy shift. It’s a signal that digital finance is here to stay, and Nigeria is ready to lead.
As regulation increases trust, platforms like Remitano will help bridge the gap between policy and practice making crypto not just regulated, but useful.
About Remitano
Remitano is a global peer-to-peer crypto exchange designed to make buying, selling, and withdrawing crypto safe and simple. Operating in over 50 countries, Remitano is trusted by thousands of Nigerians for its ease of use, bank-friendly withdrawals, and strong security protocols.
We’re committed to helping Nigerians use crypto for real-life solutions — from remittances to savings to business growth.
Explore more at remitano.com
