In a groundbreaking move that could reshape the cryptocurrency landscape in Nigeria, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has granted Quidax, a leading African crypto exchange, its first provisional operating license. This landmark decision marks a significant step towards formal recognition and regulation of the country’s burgeoning digital asset industry.

The SEC’s approval paves the way for Quidax to operate as a registered crypto exchange within Nigeria, offering a wide range of digital asset services to investors and businesses. The company expressed immense gratitude for the SEC’s support, emphasizing that this milestone is a “shot of adrenaline” for the Nigerian crypto community.

Buchi Okoro, the co-founder and CEO of Quidax, commended the SEC, particularly under the leadership of Emomotimi Agama, for its decisive action in establishing a regulatory framework that promotes order, confidence, and investor protection. The regulatory approval now enables Quidax to collaborate with banks and other financial institutions, subject to the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) consent.

The SEC’s licensing follows a comprehensive amendment to its rules in June 2023, which addressed digital asset issuance, offering platforms, exchange, and custody. Notably, the regulatory overhaul introduced the Accelerated Regulatory Incubation Programme, designed to assist virtual assets service providers in aligning with the new requirements.

While there were initial concerns that the stringent licensing requirements might deter local crypto exchanges, the SEC’s decision to grant Quidax a license has alleviated some of these fears. The commission has mandated a minimum upfront capital requirement of 500 million naira ($556,620) and a Fidelity Insurance Bond covering at least 25% of the stipulated minimum paid-up capital for both digital asset exchanges and offering platforms.

Nigeria, Africa’s largest economy, has consistently ranked high in global cryptocurrency adoption. A recent survey of 15 countries revealed that Nigeria has the world’s most cryptocurrency-aware population. Chainalysis’ “2023 Cryptocurrency Geography Report” further solidified Nigeria’s position as a leader in crypto adoption, placing it second among 154 countries.

However, despite the high adoption rate, the anticipated influx of foreign crypto investment has not materialized as expected. The new regulatory framework and Quidax’s licensing could potentially change this trajectory by providing a more stable and secure environment for both local and international investors.

As the regulatory environment continues to evolve, other local exchanges will likely follow Quidax’s lead and seek to meet the SEC’s requirements. This development could further legitimize the crypto industry in Nigeria and attract more participants to the digital asset ecosystem.