In a bold step to position Nigeria as a hub for innovation in blockchain and cryptocurrency regulation, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has partnered with Cambridge Enterprise, licensed digital asset exchange Busha, and blockchain intelligence firm A&D Forensics to launch a digital assets programme for regulators, industry leaders, and compliance professionals across Africa.
The initiative, named the Executive Certificate in Digital Assets Innovation, Industry, Regulation & Compliance (DAIIRC), is designed to equip participants with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the fast-evolving landscape of cryptocurrencies, stablecoins, central bank digital currencies (CBDCs), and blockchain technology.
The six-week online programme combines global research insights with practical African context, ensuring that participants can translate learning into actionable strategies.
Speaking at the announcement, Programme Director Dr. Dee Allen of Cambridge Enterprise said,
“At Cambridge, we believe that meaningful education occurs when academic insight meets practical relevance.
This digital assets programme bridges the gap between policy, technology, and market realities, ensuring that African regulators and industry leaders are empowered to innovate responsibly.”
Strengthening Africa’s Digital Economy
The SEC Nigeria, serving as the regulatory partner for the digital assets programme, emphasized the need for proactive engagement with digital finance.
Dr. Emomotimi Agama, Director-General of SEC Nigeria, highlighted that the programme comes at a crucial moment in Africa’s digital economic transformation.
“As Nigeria and the continent stand on the brink of a digital revolution, it is critical for regulators, policymakers, and financial leaders to have deep understanding and structured oversight of digital assets,” Dr. Agama said.
“Through this programme, we aim to equip participants with the competence to engage confidently with blockchain innovations, fostering both stability and inclusivity in our capital markets.”
By focusing on the evolving regulatory landscape, the digital assets programme provides in-depth modules on the regulation, supervision, and compliance of virtual assets, alongside technical insights into stablecoins and CBDCs.
Participants will also explore fraud prevention, anti-money laundering strategies, and blockchain forensics, creating a comprehensive skill set for leaders navigating digital financial systems.
Industry Collaboration for Real-World Impact
Busha, as a licensed exchange partner, brings fintech innovation experience to the digital assets programme, ensuring participants understand market dynamics in real operational contexts.
Olaoluwa Samuel-Biyi, Co-founder and Director of Compliance at Busha, stated,
“Innovation and regulation are converging in Nigeria.
With central bank stablecoin frameworks under review and deeper SEC engagement in digital assets, executive programmes like DAIIRC prepare stakeholders to make informed, forward-looking decisions that balance growth and compliance.”
A&D Forensics adds another layer of practical expertise, particularly in blockchain analytics and regulatory compliance.
Senior Partner Deji Owonibi emphasized the importance of translating theoretical knowledge into operational excellence.
“Our contribution ensures participants learn how to build secure, transparent systems for digital assets. Trust and accountability are the pillars of a robust digital economy,” he said.
Responding to Nigeria’s Growing Digital Finance Market
The launch of the digital assets programme aligns with Nigeria’s growing involvement in cryptocurrency and blockchain markets.
According to SEC Nigeria, the country recorded over $50 billion in cryptocurrency transaction volume between July 2023 and June 2024.
These transactions highlight the critical role of digital assets in cross-border payments, remittances, and commerce.
The programme’s timing is strategic, coinciding with recent initiatives by the Central Bank of Nigeria to explore regulatory frameworks for stablecoins and digital currencies.
By combining policy insight with practical training, the digital assets programme positions Africa to develop capable leadership and strengthen investor confidence in emerging financial instruments.
Who the Programme Targets
The six-week online programme is designed for regulators, central bank officials, securities and market regulators, fintech founders, compliance officers, and senior executives in financial institutions.
By engaging stakeholders across the spectrum, the digital assets programme fosters a cohesive understanding of digital finance, regulation, and operational best practices.
Dr. Allen concluded, “This programme is more than an academic exercise.
It is a practical roadmap for Africa’s financial ecosystem, ensuring that leaders are prepared to innovate safely and responsibly while driving inclusive growth.”
As digital assets continue to reshape global finance, Nigeria’s partnership with Cambridge, Busha, and A&D Forensics through the DAIIRC programme represents a landmark effort to equip industry professionals with the tools to navigate and lead in this dynamic landscape.
