The Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX Group) has formally requested the implementation of rigorous regulatory safeguards as the Federal Republic of Nigeria accelerates its transition towards the integration of digital assets into the national financial architecture.

Also read: NGX Educates Youth on Market Safety, Fraud

The Head of the NGX Group, Dr Umaru Kwairanga, issued the warning during the 2026 Investment Advisers and Portfolio Managers’ Conference in Lagos, asserting that the evolution of the capital market must be balanced against strict risk discipline and transparent governance.

Dr Umaru Kwairanga informed delegates that the future stability of the Nigerian capital market is contingent upon ensuring that emerging asset classes are introduced within a framework that prioritises investor protection.

While acknowledging that digital instruments are currently reshaping global finance, Dr Umaru Kwairanga cautioned that their local adoption must not be permitted to encourage reckless risk-taking or erode established market protections.

The Chairman noted that Nigeria’s digital asset integration holds the potential to significantly enhance capital formation and broaden financial inclusion by streamlining transactions.

However, Dr Umaru Kwairanga was emphatic that without comprehensive oversight, the inherent volatility and systemic exposure associated with these assets could potentially destabilise the broader economy.

In a move to modernise the trading environment, the NGX Group has already introduced NGX Invest, a digital platform designed to replace traditional paper-based offerings with a seamless electronic process.

Dr Umaru Kwairanga cited this transition as a successful precedent for how technology can improve transparency and efficiency when managed under a clear mandate.

The appeal for clarity arrives as local fintech operators continue to seek definitive guidance from the Central Bank of Nigeria regarding permissible activities for licensed institutions.

Dr Umaru Kwairanga described investment advisers as the essential custodians of capital, noting that their professional integrity is the cornerstone of a resilient financial ecosystem.

Concluding his address, Dr Umaru Kwairanga called for a formidable alliance between regulators and market participants to ensure the nation remains competitive.

Also read: NGX Records Strong 2.15% Gain Despite Trading Dip

He argued that only through such collaboration can Nigeria’s digital asset integration support sustainable economic growth rather than temporary speculative gains.