As part of its ongoing nationwide blockchain advocacy, awareness, and strategic engagement drive, the Stakeholders in Blockchain Technology Association of Nigeria (SiBAN), the foremost self-regulatory association for the blockchain and digital assets industry in Nigeria, paid a high-level courtesy visit to His Highness Muhammadu Sanusi II, Emir of Kano and former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).
The meeting, which took place at the Emir’s Palace in Kano, forms part of SiBAN’s mission to strengthen governance, build bridges across institutions, and promote blockchain adoption as a driver of financial inclusion, economic growth, and digital transformation in Nigeria and across Africa.
A Meeting of Vision and Leadership
The SiBAN delegation, led by Obinna Iwuno President of SiBAN, formally introduced SiBAN as Nigeria’s self-regulatory body for the blockchain and digital assets ecosystem, highlighting the Association’s mission to promote safe, transparent, and ethical adoption of blockchain technology; and the Association’s vision of fostering a safe, innovative, and inclusive blockchain ecosystem. He emphasized how blockchain can serve as a tool for transparency, efficiency, and empowerment, especially in addressing pressing challenges such as financial exclusion and youth unemployment.
The visit carried a profound symbolic weight that underscores SiBAN’s commitment to bridging the gap between cutting-edge technologies and Nigeria’s rich traditional governance structures, ensuring that blockchain adoption reflects the nation’s diverse cultural and societal realities. A recognition that meaningful technological transformation must engage all key stakeholders, including traditional authorities who remain central to Nigeria’s socio-economic fabric. As a mark of respect and goodwill, the SiBAN delegation presented an Award of Excellence and a symbolic gesture of honor to His Highness Emir Sanusi II, who warmly received them and expressed his support for SiBAN’s objectives.
“We are deeply honored by His Royal Highness’s acceptance to guide our association,” said Mr. Iwuno. “This is a historic milestone that validates our vision of building a secure and inclusive blockchain ecosystem. By collaborating with respected traditional institutions , we are better positioned to foster trust, credibility, and collaboration as we work to position Nigeria as a leader in global blockchain innovation.”
In his response, His Highness Emir Sanusi II commended SiBAN’s efforts in advancing blockchain advocacy nationwide. Drawing from his experience as a former CBN Governor and respected global voice in finance and ethical leadership, the Emir underscored the importance of adopting emerging technologies responsibly. He called for a balance between innovation, regulation, and societal impact, stressing that blockchain can help Nigeria and Africa position themselves competitively in the global digital economy.
The Emir’s Vision for Emerging Technologies
His Royal Highness, renowned for his economic foresight and commitment to national development, expressed strong support for SiBAN’s work. Recognizing the transformative potential of blockchain technology and other emerging innovations, the Emir pledged to provide strategic guidance and leverage his influence to ensure SiBAN’s initiatives align with Nigeria’s broader economic objectives.
“I acknowledge the critical role of emerging technologies in shaping the future,” the Emir stated. “I will provide guidance and lend my influence to ensure that SiBAN’s activities remain aligned with national interests and contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s economic development.”
The Emir’s warm reception and public endorsement provide SiBAN with a powerful and credible anchor as it continues to engage policymakers, regulators, and international partners on blockchain-related policy and innovation.
Strengthening SiBAN’s Governance and National Impact
With the Emir’s acknowledgement, SiBAN will formalize this relationship within its governance framework, ensuring sustained engagement with the Kano Emirate and other key stakeholders. This strategic alliance enhances SiBAN’s capacity to champion transparency, accountability, and ethical practices while driving the safe adoption of blockchain technology for economic growth and financial inclusion.
Alongside Mr. Iwuno, the SiBAN delegation included Mrs. Janet Oyelade, Ms. Saudat Alhassan Zulkiflih, and Mr. Oluwasegun Kosemani.
Nationwide and Global Mission
The visit to Kano is one of several strategic consultations SiBAN is undertaking across Nigeria. These engagements with policymakers, regulators, traditional leaders, innovators, and institutions are designed to ensure that blockchain adoption in Nigeria is both inclusive and globally relevant.
By strengthening partnerships and governance structures, SiBAN aims to advance a future where Nigeria does not just consume blockchain solutions but becomes a creator of globally recognized innovations that can scale across Africa and beyond.
Join SiBAN in Shaping Nigeria’s Blockchain Future
The Stakeholders in Blockchain Technology Association of Nigeria (SiBAN) is Nigeria’s leading blockchain association committed to promoting a safe, innovative, and inclusive digital asset and blockchain ecosystem. As a self-regulatory organization, SiBAN works with innovators, regulators, policymakers, and institutions to build trust, create awareness, and strengthen governance in Nigeria’s blockchain industry.SiBAN invites industry leaders, innovators, policymakers, and the general public to collaborate in building a secure and inclusive blockchain ecosystem for Nigeria. Together, we can harness the transformative power of blockchain to drive economic prosperity, strengthen trust in digital assets, and position Nigeria as a continental leader in blockchain adoption.
Contact SiBAN at membership@siban.org and join our free telegram group
