Opinion of: Mohammed Idris, Information Minister of Nigeria
Nigeria has become one of the most active and dynamic cryptographic markets in recent years. From bustling technological centers in lakes to base communities in smaller cities, Nigerian young people have resorted to cryptocurrencies to address fundamental economic challenges, from inflation coverage to access to global markets in a way that traditional finances often do not allow it.
As a minister of information, I have seen firsthand how digital innovation has become crucial for Nigerian history. Cryptocurrencies, blockchain technology and other digital assets are no longer outside of our economy; Centrals are becoming quickly for how our people transact, create and build.
However, this increase in cryptographic adoption has not come without challenges. The questions about regulation, consumer protection, security and misuse of digital assets have fed debates in Nigeria and worldwide. I write to clarify the position of Nigeria: we are committed to promoting an inclusive digital asset ecosystem that is innovative and responsible.
Nigeria is a crypto center
According to several international reports, Nigeria is constantly located among the main countries in terms of cryptographic adoption. Our population, more than 200 million strong people, with an average age less than 20 years, is naturally inclined towards new technologies. crypto has become more than a speculative tool; It is a lifeguard for independent workers, small businesses and families that receive remittances.
However, despite the generalized use of cryptocurrencies, Nigeria has fought how to regulate this sector effectively. The previous approaches included restrictions on financial institutions to facilitate cryptographic transactions, which inadvertently promoted much of the activity underground, far from the proper supervision.
Nigeria moves towards a robust regulation
Under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Nigeria is reassessing his approach. We are moving away from the general restrictions towards a reflexive and balanced regulation that recognizes both the risks and the transformative potential of cryptographic technologies and blockchain.
Our goal is to create a regulatory framework that fosters innovation, guarantees market integrity and protects Nigerian consumers. This implies an active commitment to the interested parties of new cryptographic and developing companies of Blockchain to international partners and regulatory agencies.
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Nigeria's posture is simple. We support the innovation that benefits our people, but we will not allow misuse that damages them.
We recognize legitimate use cases for cryptocurrencies, which include:
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Financial inclusion for non -banking and not banks.
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Cross -border payments and remittances that avoid high rates.
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Access to global markets for Nigerian independent entrepreneurs and workers.
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The new digital economies, such as decentralized finances (defi) and non -fungible tokens (nft), offer opportunities for wealth creation.
At the same time, we are determined to address concerns about fraud, money laundering, terrorism financing and other illicit activities. Effective regulation, instead of prohibition, is the way forward.
Nigeria and Blockchain
Nigeria sees blockchain technology as more than just cryptography trade. Blockchain can be a powerful tool for governance, transparency and provision of services.
Conversations are already being made about how blockchain can improve public systems, such as:
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Land records to reduce fraud and strengthen property rights.
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Identity management systems to improve financial inclusion.
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Supply chain monitoring to improve food security and public procurement.
A collaborative approach
Nigeria is not sailing only this trip. As we develop new policies and frames, we look for global best practices and seek collaboration with international platforms and regulators.
We invite cryptographic, investors, innovative and defenders to interact with us. Our goal is to create a transparent and predictable environment where companies can prosper while guaranteeing that Nigerian citizens are protected from undue risks.
Nigeria's approach to cryptography is evolving and with good reasons. The potential for digital assets and block chain to contribute to economic growth, employment creation and financial empowerment is too significant to ignore.
To obtain these benefits, we must generate confidence in the system through effective regulation, education and international cooperation.
For the global cryptography community, I say this: Nigeria is open to innovation, but we are equally committed to ensuring that such innovation works within a safe, transparent and inclusive framework.
We hope to work together, for the benefit of the Nigerians and the global advance of the adoption of responsible cryptography.
Opinion of: Mohammed Idris, Information Minister of Nigeria.
This article is for general information purposes and is not intended to be and should not be taken as legal or investment advice. The points of view, the thoughts and opinions expressed here are alone of the author and do not necessarily reflect or represent the opinions and opinions of Cointelegraph.