Senate, blockchain stakeholders push for cryptocurrency legal framework

The Nigerian Senate has opened talks with the Stakeholders in Blockchain Technology Association of Nigeria (SiBAN) on establishing a legal framework to regulate cryptocurrency exchanges in the country.

The discussions were held on Wednesday, September 3, during an interactive session between the Senate Committee on Capital Market, chaired by Senator Osita Izunaso, and SiBAN, led by its President, Obinna Iwuno.

Iwuno noted that Nigeria ranks second globally and first in Africa in cryptocurrency adoption but continues to operate without a clear regulatory structure, leaving the country vulnerable to missed economic opportunities.

“Here in Nigeria, we cannot afford to take the back seat after ranking second globally in crypto adoption.

Africa contributes over 60 percent of blockchain activities, with Nigeria in the lead.

Chainanalysis puts the value of transactions on the blockchain at $59 billion.

This is just a fraction of the potential we can harness with the right framework, regulation, policy, and government support,” he said.

He explained that SiBAN, functioning as a self-regulatory body, has been working with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) to strengthen the digital asset ecosystem. Citing global trends, he referenced the recent U.S. Genius Act signed by former President Donald Trump, which permits dollar-backed stablecoins to sustain the dollar’s global dominance.

Senator Izunaso, in response, commended SiBAN’s efforts in promoting digital assets.

“We truly value your dedication to fostering a safe, innovative, and well-regulated digital economy.

“The topics you have proposed, ranging from tokenisation to investor protection and supportive policy, align closely with our objectives.

“This meeting is an opportunity to shape the future of Nigeria’s capital market,” he said.

Other committee members, including Senators Victor Umeh, Jibrin Isa, and Mustapha Khabeeb, echoed the call for enabling legislation to guide cryptocurrency operations and unlock the sector’s potential.