Introduction

This edition of the Regulatory Digest highlights key regulatory updates and digital policy initiatives in Nigeria and across Africa. Major developments include new IT project guidelines, anti-money laundering standards, digital banking access for Nigerians abroad, and a national blockchain policy. The digest also covers trends in cybersecurity, digital inclusion, and regional advancements in AI and internet infrastructure, reflecting ongoing efforts to strengthen governance, foster innovation, and drive economic growth.

A quick summary...

1. NITDA publishes IT Project Clearance Guideline.
2. CBN exposes draft Baseline Standards for Automated Anti-Money Laundering Solutions.
3. CBN launches Non-Resident Bank Verification Number (NRBVN) Framework for Nigerians Abroad.
4. FMCIDE publishes Whitepaper on Blockchain Policy.
5. SEC continued awareness against unregistered investment entities.
6. SEC joins global GEMC sustainability network to advance ISSB standards adoption .
7. FMCIDE collaborates with the Minister of steel development.
8. NITDA establishes the state-of-the-art cybersecurity centre.
9. NITDA commissions community IT centre.
10. NITDA plans to launch centralised data hub .
11. FMITI launches the Nigeria–East/Southern Africa air cargo corridor.
12. Kenya launches AI-ready infrastructure.
13. Egypt launches National IPv6 Strategy.

NITDA's IT Project Clearance Guideline

The National Information Technology and Development Agency (NITDA) released an updated IT Project Clearance Guideline. The guideline mandates all federal public institutions (FPIs) to obtain NITDA clearance for IT projects, ensuring standardised, coordinated, and transparent deployment of technology. It introduces strict compliance measures, including Quality Assurance by licensed firms, to curb corruption and prevent project duplication. This process promotes the efficient use of public funds and supports local content and system interoperability. By reinforcing governance and accountability, the guideline strengthens Nigeria’s digital economy and fosters trust among stakeholders.

CBN's Draft Baseline Standards for Automated Anti-Money Laundering Solutions

The CBN released the draft Baseline Standards for Automated Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Solutions, for stakeholders' comment. This is in recognition of the growing digitalisation and the adoption of innovative financial products within the financial system. The draft aims to improve operational efficiency and  strengthen regulatory compliance to AML/CFT/CPF  obligations, in line with  international standards and best practices.

The introduction of baseline standards for automated AML solutions is expected to drive greater interoperability and integration among AML systems. In addition, heightened emphasis will likely be placed on transparency and traceability. Deadline for providing feedback on the draft standard is June 13, 2025.

CBN's Non-Resident Bank Verification Number (NRBVN) Framework for Nigerians Abroad

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), in partnership with the Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS), launched the NRBVN framework, a digital solution designed to enable Nigerians living abroad to securely access banking services in Nigeria.  With the NRBVN, Nigerians overseas can obtain  BVN remotely through a secure digital process backed by strong Know Your Customer (KYC) and digital verification protocols. This will make it easier for them to open accounts, send money, and use other financial services without being physically present in Nigeria.

The initiative positions the NRBVN as a strategic tool for connecting Nigeria’s global citizenry with its domestic economy.

FMCIDE's Whitepaper on Blockchain Policy

FMCIDE has released a white paper outlining Nigeria’s National Blockchain Policy, aimed at establishing a structured, inclusive, and forward-looking framework for the adoption and regulation of blockchain technology. Building on the foundational National Blockchain Strategy developed by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) in 2024, the policy incorporates input from top blockchain researchers of Nigerian descent to ensure a robust and contextually relevant approach.

The policy highlights critical areas such as electronic transactions, digital identity, supply chain transparency, financial inclusion, and innovation in governance. Its core objectives include promoting public trust and awareness, encouraging the development of blockchain-based solutions tailored to Nigeria’s unique socio-economic challenges, and supporting the creation of comprehensive regulatory frameworks. By advancing these goals, the National Blockchain Policy aims to position Nigeria as a regional leader in blockchain innovation while ensuring that its implementation aligns with national priorities and developmental needs.

SEC Issues Warning Against Unregistered Investment Entity

The SEC warns the public about an unregistered entity falsely claiming legitimacy in Nigeria’s capital market. Investors are strongly advised to avoid dealings with such platforms to prevent fraud and loss. The SEC urges everyone to verify platform registration through its portal before investing.

SEC Joins Global GEMC Sustainability Network to Advance ISSB Standards Adoption

SEC recently joined the Growth and Emerging Markets Committee (GEMC) Network on sustainability. This aims to facilitate the adoption and implementation of the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) Standards across emerging markets. Through the GEMC Network, SEC will benefit from capacity-building resources, regulatory guidance, and peer-to-peer knowledge sharing to enhance its supervisory and enforcement capabilities in sustainability disclosure practices. This initiative aligns with SEC’s global efforts to support consistent and reliable sustainability reporting.

FMCIDE Collaborates With Minister of Steel Development

The FMCIDE had a collaborative meeting with the Honourable Minister of Steel Development to explore opportunities for aligning national digital infrastructure initiatives with Nigeria’s local industrial capabilities.  The discussions highlighted two flagship projects under FMCIDE: the ongoing rollout of 90,000km of fibre optic cable and the planned deployment of 7,000 telecom towers across the country.

This collaboration aims to foster Nigeria’s economic transformation by leveraging large-scale digital infrastructure projects to stimulate local industry, generate employment opportunities, and build sustainable technical capacity across the country.

NITDA Establishes the State-of-the-Art Cybersecurity Centre

NITDA established a state-of-the-art Cybersecurity Centre, conceived as a strategic national asset to bolster Nigeria’s digital resilience and accelerate the development of indigenous cybersecurity talent. The Centre will likely improve Nigeria’s ability to detect, respond to, and mitigate cyber threats in real time, reducing potential damage from attacks. It will also, in the long run, position Nigeria as a leader in cybersecurity within Africa and globally.

NITDA Commissions Community IT Centre

The Director General of NITDA, officially commissioned the Community IT Centre in Lagos State, as part of a broader initiative to empower Nigerian youth and foster digital inclusion. The Centre is strategically designed to serve as a hub for digital skills development, knowledge sharing, and community empowerment, providing access to essential technology tools and training that will enable the younger generation to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital economy. This facility stands as a clear demonstration of the government’s commitment to ensuring digital access for all Nigerians, regardless of geographic location or socioeconomic status.

NITDA Plans to Launch Centralised Data Hub

NITDA has announced plans to establish a centralised data hub as part of its strategic efforts to achieve Nigeria’s target of 95% digital literacy by 2030. The proposed hub will serve as the National Digital Literacy Data Framework, enabling real-time monitoring of digital skills training outcomes, supporting evidence-based policy decisions, and promoting accountability across stakeholders.

By facilitating open data sharing, the platform aims to eliminate duplication, enhance collaboration, and maximise resource efficiency, ultimately accelerating Nigeria’s journey toward inclusive digital empowerment.

FMITI Launches the Nigeria–East/Southern Africa Air Cargo Corridor

FMITI, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Uganda Airlines, has officially launched the Nigeria East/Southern Africa Air Cargo Corridor a transformative export initiative under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework. This strategic milestone follows the formal approval by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the gazetting of Nigeria’s Provisional Schedule of Tariff Concessions in April 2025, marking a significant advancement in Nigeria’s trade liberalisation efforts. Designed to reduce logistics costs by 50–75%, the corridor connects Nigerian exporters to key African markets Uganda, Kenya, and South Africa creating new opportunities for trade expansion, particularly for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). With preferential access granted to businesses affiliated with leading national trade associations, the initiative ensures inclusive participation and coordinated implementation.

Kenya Launches AI-Ready Infrastructure

Safaricom partnered with IXAfrica to launch Kenya’s first AI-ready data infrastructure, establishing a robust foundation for advanced technological capabilities. This move is set to accelerate AI-driven innovation, enhance digital service delivery, and position Kenya as a continental frontrunner in next-generation technology infrastructure.

The initiative is anticipated to catalyse transformative growth across Africa’s digital ecosystem, enabling startups, enterprises, and government institutions to leverage AI-powered solutions for increased efficiency and intelligence. Ultimately, this development will foster smarter, more integrated operations spanning sectors such as healthcare and finance.

Egypt Launches National IPv6 Strategy

Egypt launched its national strategy for the adoption of Internet Protocol version 6 (IPv6) during the regional conference convened by the National Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (NTRA). This initiative, developed in collaboration with the International Forum for IPv6 and the Arab Organisation for Communications and Information Technologies, underscores Egypt’s commitment to advancing digital transformation and future-proofing its telecommunications infrastructure. The strategy aims for full readiness of both public and private infrastructure to support IPv6 over the next three years, with a goal of achieving over 80% national reliance on the protocol by 2030. Additionally, it plans to enable internet service providers to fully support IPv6 by the end of 2026.

The strategy is designed to accelerate the transition to next-generation internet protocols, supporting enhanced connectivity, scalability, and security for the nation’s digital ecosystem. This collaborative effort positions Egypt at the forefront of regional technology leadership and innovation.

The regulatory advancements captured in this edition signal a period of robust transformation for Nigeria and the broader African region. The introduction of new standards and frameworks, ranging from IT project governance and anti-money laundering to digital identity and blockchain adoption, demonstrates a clear commitment to strengthening institutional integrity, fostering innovation, and promoting digital inclusion. Collaborative projects and infrastructure investments are poised to drive economic diversification, empower local industries, and enhance Nigeria’s global competitiveness. As stakeholders adapt to these evolving regulations and opportunities, sustained engagement and proactive compliance will be key to unlocking long-term value and ensuring inclusive, technology-driven growth.

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