The Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX Group) has outlined a roadmap for integrating digital assets into Nigeria’s financial system, emphasizing that capital market development must be anchored on strong regulation and risk discipline.

NGX Group Chairman, Dr. Umaru Kwairanga, stated that capital should not lead to excessive risk-taking. He noted that innovation must be balanced with safeguards to ensure long-term market stability.

Dr. Kwairanga made these remarks at the 2026 Investment Advisers and Portfolio Managers’ Conference in Lagos. He emphasized the need to align emerging technologies with robust governance frameworks.

“We remain actively engaged with stakeholders to ensure that innovation, including emerging asset classes, is integrated responsibly within a well-regulated framework,” he stated.

He noted that digital assets are transforming traditional financial systems by creating new opportunities for capital formation and financial inclusion.

However, he warned that growth in the sector must be guided by clear regulatory safeguards to prevent systemic risks.

Dr. Kwairanga added that the future of Nigeria’s capital market depends on achieving a careful balance between regulatory clarity and strong ethical standards among market operators.

The call for a balanced framework comes amid growing demand for clearer regulation of digital assets in Nigeria. Earlier this year, fintech operators urged the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to define permissible cryptocurrency-related activities for licensed institutions.

Stakeholders have identified regulatory uncertainty as a major constraint limiting the growth and adoption of digital assets in the country.