Digital Lending: FCCPC announces January 5 deadline for full compliance in Nigeria

*Nigeria’s Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission says all affected operators, including lending platforms, service partners, and intermediaries, are expected to complete their compliance obligations by January 5, 2026, noting enforcement will begin immediately after the deadline

Isola Moses | ConsumerConnect

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has set Monday, January 5, 2026, as the deadline for full compliance with the Digital, Electronic, Online and Non-Traditional Consumer Lending Regulations, 2025.

The Regulations came into effect July 21, 2025, under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018.

The FCCPC said the aims are to promote fairness, transparency, and accountability across Nigeria’s growing digital lending market.

NCC reviewing regulatory instruments to enhance industry standards, consumer protection –Official

In order 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.

The market regulatory Commission also stated 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 assured that it would continue to process applications promptly and maintain a transparent review process.

Mr. Ondaje Ijagwu, Director of Corporate Affairs at FCCPC, in a statement issued Thursday, November 13, 2025, said Mr. Tunji Bello, Executive Vice-Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (EVC/CEO) of the FCCPC, stressed the importance of meeting this timeline.

Bello explained that “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, therefore, urged all affected operators, including lending platforms, service partners, and intermediaries, are expected to complete their compliance obligations by January 5, 2026.

It further stated that enforcement will begin immediately after the deadline.

Measures may include restricting non-compliant entities from operating, directing partners or platforms to cease dealing with them, and applying other sanctions permitted under the law.

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.

The FCCPC is committed to promoting responsible digital lending practices that protect consumers and support confidence in the financial technology sector.

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