The Nigerian Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has updated its crypto rules, adding requirements on crypto-related marketing promotions from virtual asset service providers (VASPs) and social media influencers. 

In its revised Digital Asset Rules, the SEC said that VASPs engaging third-party service providers to promote their crypto products must “obtain prior approval from the Commission.” The rules also require VASPs to ensure that the third-party provider complies with marketing rules set by the SEC.

The rules apply to any VASP offering services to the country’s residents and are scheduled to come into effect on June 30, 2025.  

New rules to “curb the menace” of Finfluencers

The SEC’s revisions also address the role of social media influencers, or “Finfluencers,” in promoting cryptocurrency products and services.

Crypto influencers must obtain a “no-objection authorization” from the SEC before publishing their digital asset ads. In addition, they must verify whether the company they are promoting is licensed by the SEC. 

Finfluencers must also disclose if they received payment to promote the crypto products or services that they are promoting. Failure to comply can result in penalties, such as a minimum fine of 10 million Nigerian naira (about $6,400) or up to three years in jail. 

The SEC also noted that they would monitor crypto ads actively to ensure they adhere to the rules. Violations would result in enforcement actions, including sanctions and financial penalties. 

The SEC wrote that the new rules aim to “curb the menace and address the growing popularity of financial influencers.” The SEC said it wants to prevent sharing unauthorized financial investment products on social media or any other marketing mediums. 

Related: Emerging markets lead crypto adoption, according to Consenys survey

Nigeria plans to start enforcement actions on unregulated VASPs

At present, only two exchanges are regulated in Nigeria. On Aug. 29, the SEC issued its first provisional operating license to the African crypto exchange Quidax Technologies. It has also approved Busha Digital to operate in the country. The licenses allow the trading platforms to operate as registered exchanges in Nigeria. 

On Sept. 9, the SEC said it plans to start enforcement actions against businesses involved in unregulated crypto transactions. Emomotimi Agama, the director-general of Nigeria’s SEC, said that the agency will take action against entities offering crypto services to Nigerians without the proper permits. 

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