FCCPC Sets January Deadline For Digital Lending Compliance To Strengthen Consumer Protection In Nigeria
FCCPC mandates full compliance with Digital Lending Regulations by January 5, 2026, ensuring fairness and consumer protection.
The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has announced January 5, 2026, as the final deadline for all digital lending platforms and intermediaries in Nigeria to comply fully with the Digital, Electronic, Online and Non-Traditional Consumer Lending Regulations, 2025.
The Regulations, which took effect on July 21, 2025, were established under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018. They aim to enhance fairness, transparency, and accountability within Nigeria’s rapidly expanding digital lending market.
To guide operators in achieving compliance, the FCCPC has released an accompanying document the Guidelines on the Digital, Electronic, Online and Non-Traditional Consumer Lending Regulations, 2025. Issued under Sections 17 and 163 of the FCCPA, these Guidelines provide detailed instructions on documentation requirements, compliance procedures, and the updated Forms 1 and 3, developed from stakeholder feedback.
The Commission has encouraged applicants with pending submissions to update their documentation in line with the new Guidelines without waiting for formal notification. The FCCPC emphasised that it remains committed to a transparent and efficient review process.
Speaking on the development, Mr. Tunji Bello, Executive Vice Chairman of the FCCPC, highlighted the importance of meeting the compliance deadline:
“Full compliance is not just a legal obligation, it’s vital for protecting consumers and ensuring sustainable growth in Nigeria’s digital lending sector. Operators have had sufficient time to adjust, and we expect all obligations to be fulfilled before the deadline.”
The FCCPC confirmed that enforcement actions will commence immediately after January 5, 2026, targeting non-compliant entities. Sanctions may include restricting operations, directing partners to cease business with defaulters, and applying other penalties permitted under the law.
All lending platforms, service partners, and intermediaries are advised to complete compliance formalities before the deadline. Copies of the Guidelines, Forms, and FAQs are available on the official FCCPC website and at Commission offices nationwide.
The FCCPC reaffirmed its commitment to fostering responsible digital lending practices, promoting consumer trust, and supporting growth in Nigeria’s financial technology ecosystem.
