The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission has set Monday, January 5, 2026, as the final deadline for all operators to fully comply with the Digital, Electronic, Online, and Non-Traditional Consumer Lending Regulations, 2025.
A statement released on Thursday by the Commission and signed by the Director of Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu, said the regulations, which took effect on July 21, 2025, under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act 2018, are designed to ensure fairness, transparency, and accountability within Nigeria’s rapidly expanding digital lending sector.
To support operators in meeting the requirements, the FCCPC also unveiled a supplementary instrument: the Guidelines on the Digital, Electronic, Online and Non-Traditional Consumer Lending Regulations, 2025.
Developed pursuant to Sections 17 and 163 of the FCCPA, the guidelines offer detailed instructions for lenders and intermediaries, specify required documentation, and introduce updated Forms 1 and 3, reflecting feedback from industry stakeholders.
The Commission explained that applicants with pending submissions can now provide any additional information requested under the new guidelines without waiting for formal solicitation, with application processing continuing in a transparent and timely manner.
Emphasizing the importance of adherence, FCCPC Executive Vice Chairman Tunji Bello said, “Full compliance is not only a legal requirement but an important step in protecting consumers and ensuring that the sector continues to grow in a fair and responsible manner.
“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 FCCPC stressed that all affected operators, including lending platforms, service partners, and intermediaries, must complete their compliance obligations by January 5, 2026.
The Commission warned that enforcement actions would begin immediately after the deadline, potentially restricting non-compliant entities from operating, instructing partners or platforms to cease engagement with them, and applying other sanctions allowed under the law.
Copies of the guidelines, relevant forms, and Frequently Asked Questions are available on the FCCPC website, www.fccpc.gov.ng, at its offices nationwide, and through other official communication channels.
The Commission reiterated its commitment to fostering responsible digital lending practices that protect consumers and strengthen confidence in Nigeria’s fintech ecosystem.
