Nigeria Officially Recognizes Cryptocurrencies as Securities: Impact and Implications

Nigeria has taken a significant step towards regulating its burgeoning cryptocurrency industry by officially recognizing digital assets as securities under the Investments and Securities Act (ISA) 2025. This landmark legislation, signed into law by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, marks a definitive shift in how cryptocurrencies are treated within the country. The act grants the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) of Nigeria increased authority over the digital asset space. It also introduces stricter penalties for fraudulent schemes like Ponzi programs.