President Bola Ahmed Tinubu signed the Presidential Executive Order on Virtual Assets Coordination, 2026, on Friday. The order establishes a unified regulatory framework for virtual assets across Nigeria. Officials said the move aims to coordinate oversight, protect consumers, and harness economic benefits from the sector.
Nigeria recorded substantial virtual asset transactions in recent years. Between July 2024 and June 2025, Nigerians conducted transactions estimated at $92.1 billion in the formal market. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu acted to address gaps in supervision that existed despite this activity.
The executive order builds on earlier steps. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had previously established the Virtual Asset Regulatory Council as a coordination body.
It also designated the Central Bank of Nigeria and the Nigeria Revenue Service as joint authorities for non-security virtual assets. The Securities and Exchange Commission continues to oversee assets classified as securities.
The new order creates a harmonized approach. It coordinates mandates of existing agencies instead of creating a standalone regulator. Transition words such as “therefore” and “furthermore” highlight its focus on consumer protection, anti-money laundering compliance, and tax collection.
Industry participants welcomed the clarity. They noted that the framework reduces regulatory friction while strengthening oversight. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu emphasized the need for innovation within a safe environment, according to statements from the Presidency.
Analysts observed that the order aligns Nigeria with international standards. It supports the Accelerated Regulatory Incubation Programme run by the Securities and Exchange Commission, which recently admitted nine virtual asset service providers. These firms now operate under supervised conditions.
The unified framework promises better investor safeguards and formal integration of digital assets into the economy. Experts said it positions Nigeria to capture more value from its active crypto market.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration described the signing as a milestone. It reflects ongoing efforts to modernize financial regulation while promoting responsible growth in virtual assets.
