The blockchain and digital asset sector in Nigeria is at a major turning point following the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)'s issuance of Circular No. 26-1 on January 16, 2026. This circular, "Revised Minimum Capital Requirements for Regulated Capital Market Entities," raises the paid-up capital thresholds significantly for a number of market players, including ancillary service providers and Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) like Digital Assets Exchanges (DAXs), Digital Assets Custodians, and Digital Assets Offering Platforms (DAOPs)
In response to these developments, the Stakeholders in Blockchain Technology Association of Nigeria (SiBAN), the leading blockchain association, is hosting an important expert-led discussion. This event aims to provide clarity, strategic insights, and practical guidance on X, titled: Understanding Nigeria's SEC Capital Policy: What the New Requirements Mean for Blockchain and Digital Asset Companies.
Meet the Panel
SIBAN is proud to host an exceptional lineup of industry leaders who will share insights, answer questions, and offer practical guidance:
Moderator: Mr. Paul Confidence
CEO of NxtPro Systems
A technology and Web3 leader with over a decade of experience across digital finance and operations. Paul Confidence brings deep industry insight from roles spanning CEO, COO, and CMO, and will moderate the session with clarity and strategic perspective.
Barr. Mela Claude Ake
President, SiBAN | Lead Partner, Mela Claude Ake & Co.
A legal expert in corporate tech and sports law. Barr. Ake will break down the legal implications of the SEC’s new capital requirements.
Mr. Emeka Ezike
Head of Communication & Marketing, Pencil Protocol, Business Development Lead, Rootzlabs.
With over a decade of experience spanning technology, business development, growth marketing, and community leadership, Emeka has built a remarkable career defined by innovation, impact, and purpose.
Mr. Ugo Peters
GMO, HxAfrica | VP, Digital Asset & Capital Market Operations
Ugo Peters will provide operational and strategic perspectives, helping digital asset companies understand how to adapt and remain competitive under the new policy.
The conversation will address:
- Breakdown of capital tiers and entity classifications.
- Compliance timelines, verification processes, and available transitional measures.
Strategic opportunities: attracting institutional capital, enhancing market maturity, and positioning Nigeria as a leading regulated digital asset hub in Africa.
- Key concerns: impact on startups, innovation pace, and calls for supportive policies (e.g., phased implementation or incentives).
- Live Q&A: submit questions on licensing, taxation, cross-border implications, fundraising, or any other pressing topics.
Whether you operate a digital asset platform, develop blockchain solutions, manage investments, or engage with the ecosystem, this session delivers a timely, expert-driven perspective at a defining moment for the industry.
Secure your spot, mark your calendar, enable notifications, and join live on January 28 at 7:00 PM WAT.
Together, let's discuss these regulations, adapt strategically, and contribute to a robust, compliant, and innovative Nigerian digital asset future.
For those interested in being part of SiBAN’s expanding community and its vision . To become a member of SiBAN, send us an email [email protected], or you can also join our SiBAN Telegram community.
