The Stakeholders in Blockchain Technology Association of Nigeria (SIBAN) continues to show its leadership in building a responsible, innovative, and inclusive digital economy. At the recent SEC-UNIZIK South-East SME Conference on November 14, 2025, SIBAN not only participated but also gave a strong, forward-looking presentation. It placed blockchain-enabled tokenization at the center of addressing Nigeria’s ongoing issue: SME financing. Under the conference theme, “Harnessing Capital Market Opportunities for SME Growth and Investment Sustainability,” SIBAN outlined the way to achieve truly inclusive economic development.
In the third plenary session, Emeka Ezike, a member of SIBAN’s Board of Trustees, spoke on behalf of President Obinna Iwuno. The presentation, titled “Financing SME Growth: Unlocking Opportunities Through Capital Market Instruments,” pointed out how SMEs are the driving force of emerging economies. They provide up to 60% of jobs and about 40% of GDP. However, these businesses struggle due to strict banking rules, like high collateral demands, high interest rates, and short loan terms that do not match their long-term needs.
SIBAN’s solution is straightforward: shift SME funding from traditional banks to modern capital markets using blockchain. Key proposals include tokenized securities for fractional ownership and instant liquidity, smart contract-driven compliance automation, equity and debt crowdfunding platforms, and the creation of dedicated SME listing boards on digital exchanges.
SIBAN drew inspiration from successful global models like London’s AIM and India’s SME platforms. They called for tax incentives, credit guarantees from BOI and DBN, and blended finance structures to speed up adoption.
Chimene Chinah, CEO of Dantown, also spoke at the conference about data-driven investment decisions and increasing SME participation. He highlighted how blockchain and AI can provide clear, standardized digital reporting to help SMEs become investment-ready. User-friendly platforms with built-in regulatory compliance can simplify the process of raising bonds, commercial papers, or crowdfunded equity, even for owners with limited technical skills.
SIBAN’s participation reinforces her position as Nigeria’s leading self-regulatory body and the strongest voice bridging regulators, innovators, and entrepreneurs. By championing tokenized capital markets, we are not just advocating change,we are building the infrastructure for sustainable, inclusive growth.
Nigeria is evolving fast. Founders, exchanges, compliance professionals, investors, and policymakers can join SIBAN now to shape what comes next.
To become a member or explore partnership opportunities, send a mail to membership@siban.org or join our Telegram community today.
