…as Nigeria’s central bank opens dual-track innovation programme for Fintechs
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has confirmed the opening of applications for the second cohort of its Regulatory Sandbox Programme, a move sighted by Confiance News as a strategic step to deepen financial innovation in the country’s digital ecosystem.
CBN Opens Sandbox Applications August 12
Applications will run from August 12 to August 31, 2026, according to details obtained from the Bank’s Corporate Communications Department.
Dual Tracks for Virtual Assets and Data Services
The programme introduces two distinct tracks:
- Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) Track — covering stablecoins, payments, custody, wallets, and related infrastructure requiring supervised live testing.
- Data-Enabled Financial Services Track — focusing on innovations that leverage secure digital infrastructure and permission-based data sharing to boost inclusion, payments, credit, and consumer outcomes.
Controlled Testing Environment for Fintechs
The Sandbox provides a supervised environment where eligible participants can test new financial products, services, and technologies. According to information confirmed by Confiance News, the initiative is designed to strengthen regulatory learning while safeguarding consumer protection.
CBN Reaffirms Risk-Based Regulatory Commitment
The Bank stated that Cohort 2 reflects its commitment to a transparent and proportionate regulatory framework that balances innovation with financial stability. Insights from supervised testing will inform future supervisory policies for Nigeria’s evolving digital finance sector.
Musa Jimoh Highlights Innovation Drive
Commenting on the launch, Mr. Musa Jimoh, Director of the Payments System Policy Department, noted that financial innovation is reshaping access to services. He said the Sandbox, powered by technology in partnership with EMTECH, allows regulators and innovators to collaborate responsibly while maintaining safeguards for consumers.
Application Criteria and Testing Parameters
Applications will be assessed on innovation level, readiness for live testing, governance, risk management, and consumer benefit. Successful participants will undergo supervised testing under strict parameters, including cybersecurity, operational resilience, and regulatory reporting.
No Automatic Licensing for Participants
The CBN stressed that participation does not equate to licensing or authorisation beyond the approved testing scope. The Sandbox is intended to facilitate responsible experimentation and evidence-based policy development.
Portal Access and Deadline
Interested organisations are advised to apply via the CBN Regulatory Sandbox Portal (https://sandbox.cbn.gov.ng) before the August 31 deadline. The Bank reaffirmed its commitment to fostering an innovative, resilient, and inclusive financial ecosystem that supports sustainable growth while protecting Nigeria’s financial system integrity.
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