The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has set January 5, 2026, as the deadline for all digital lending operators and intermediaries in Nigeria to fully comply with its new digital lending rules.
This was made known on Thursday in a statement issued by the commission’s director of corporate affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu, stating that the regulation took effect on July 21, 2025, and was introduced under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018 in order to “promote fairness, transparency, and accountability in Nigeria’s growing digital lending market.”
He said, “To support operators in meeting the required standards, the commission has issued an additional instrument — the guidelines on the Digital, Electronic, Online, and Non-Traditional Consumer Lending Regulations, 2025 — made under Sections 17 and 163 of the FCCPA.
“This document provides practical direction for lenders and intermediaries, explains the documentation required, and introduces updated Forms 1 and 3 based on feedback received from stakeholders.
“Applicants with pending submissions may provide any additional information required under the new guidelines without waiting for a formal request.
“The commission will continue to process applications promptly and maintain a transparent review process.”
In his remarks, Tunji Bello, the executive vice-chairman of the FCCPC, said, “Full compliance is not only a legal requirement but an important step in protecting consumers and ensuring that the sector continues to grow fairly and responsibly.
“Operators have had ample time to adjust to the regulations and the additional guidance now provided. We expect all obligations to be met before the deadline.
The commission stated that enforcement activities would commence immediately after the January 5, 2026, deadline, adding that non-compliance could result in restriction from operation as well as other sanctions applicable under the law.
FCCPC also stated that “Copies of the Guidelines, Forms, and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) are available on the Commission’s website at www.fccpc.gov.ng, including through enquiries at FCCPC offices nationwide, or via other official channels provided on the website.”
It also reiterated its dedication to sterilizing the digital lending space of operators that have been accused of charging high interest rates, public shaming, and harassment to recover debts with the view of protecting consumers.