Market News

by  Esther Amao

For years, cryptocurrency in Nigeria has moved through uncertain waters. At times, the industry faced strict limits from regulators. At other times, it looked like digital assets might find a legal place in the economy. 

Now, as Nigeria begins enforcing new rules in 2026, the relationship between regulators and crypto users has entered a new chapter. What this means for Nigerians with Binance accounts is something every investor should understand clearly.

Nigeria’s story with crypto has been one of ups and downs. In the past, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) told banks not to work with crypto exchanges. That instruction led to trouble for big names like Binance and others, leaving many traders unable to use their bank accounts for crypto transactions. Still, Nigerians kept trading crypto, often relying on peer-to-peer methods and technology workarounds. However, the apex bank later reversed itself. 

Now in 2026, the government has taken further steps to bring cryptocurrency into a regulated space. Under the Nigeria Tax Administration Act (NTAA) of 2025, the authorities have introduced new compliance requirements for users and platforms alike. 

As of January 1, 2026, all crypto transactions in Nigeria must be linked to a Tax Identification Number (TIN) and a National Identification Number (NIN). This applies whether you use a local exchange or an international platform like Binance. 

What the New Rules Mean for Binance Users

As a Nigerian interested in crypto dealings, especially through app like Binance, understanding how these new rules would affect you is essential.

No Naira services on Binance

If you already have a Binance account, here is what you need to know.First, Binance no longer supports direct naira services inside Nigeria. In 2024, the platform stopped all naira deposits and withdrawals. Any remaining naira balances on user accounts were converted into stablecoins automatically. This change was tied to ongoing regulatory pressure and scrutiny from Nigerian authorities. 

TIN-NIN linked to Crypto wallets

Even though Binance still exists globally and many Nigerians continue to hold crypto there, any transaction you make must now be tied to your TIN and NIN. Binance and other digital asset service providers are expected to collect this data as part of their legal duties here. This is not optional. It is part of the new compliance structure that links digital asset activity to Nigeria’s formal tax system.

Data submission

Another important point is that, according to the new law, exchanges must report customer activity and transaction details to Nigerian authorities regularly. That includes records of deposits, trades, and transfers. Exchanges that fail to meet these rules face stiff penalties or may lose their licence to operate in Nigeria. 

Still Some Uncertainty

Even with the new rules, questions remain. There are concerns about how strictly these regulations will be enforced, especially for platforms that are technically based outside Nigerian jurisdiction. There are also worries among users about giving so much personal information to exchanges, and how that information is stored and protected.

And because Nigeria’s crypto market has historically been lively and creative in finding ways to trade despite restrictions, many users are watching closely to see how these new rules play out in real life.

What you should do now

If you use Binance and live in Nigeria, there are a few important steps you should take to stay on the right side of the new regulations. 

First, ensure that you have a National Identification Number (NIN), which, according to the Nigerian Revenue Service (NRS), is also valid as your Tax Identification Number. This is now required for lawful cryptocurrency transactions and may need to be linked to your account. 

It is also important to regularly check Binance’s official updates and notices so you understand any new compliance requirements for Nigerian users and keep your personal details current. In addition, if you earn profits from cryptocurrency trading, be prepared to include those gains as part of your taxable income in line with Nigeria’s tax laws, and seek guidance from a tax professional if anything is unclear. 

Finally, keep an eye on regulatory updates from the Nigerian Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), as the rules around licensed exchanges are still developing, and staying informed will help you know which platforms are fully authorised to operate locally.