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

The regulations, which took effect on July 21, 2025, under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018, are designed to promote fairness, transparency, and accountability in Nigeria’s rapidly expanding digital lending industry.

To help operators align with the required standards, the Commission has released an additional document—Guidelines on the Digital, Electronic, Online and Non-Traditional Consumer Lending Regulations, 2025—issued pursuant to Sections 17 and 163 of the FCCPA. The Guidelines provide practical direction for lenders and intermediaries, outline documentation requirements, and include updated Forms 1 and 3 developed in response to stakeholder feedback.

According to the FCCPC, applicants with pending submissions may supplement their applications with any information required under the new Guidelines without waiting for an official request. The Commission also assured stakeholders of a transparent and prompt application review process.

The Executive Vice Chairman of the FCCPC, Mr. Tunji Bello, underscored the importance of adhering to the compliance timeline, describing it as crucial for protecting consumers and sustaining the integrity of the digital lending ecosystem.

“Full compliance is not only a legal requirement but also a key step in protecting consumers and ensuring that the sector continues to grow in a fair and responsible manner,” Bello stated. “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 emphasized that all affected operators—including lending platforms, service partners, and intermediaries must complete their compliance obligations by January 5, 2026. Enforcement actions will commence immediately after the deadline, potentially including restrictions on non-compliant entities, suspension of operations, and other sanctions permitted by law.

Copies of the Guidelines, updated Forms, and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) are available on the Commission’s official website at www.fccpc.gov.ng, as well as at FCCPC offices nationwide and other official communication channels.

The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to fostering responsible digital lending practices that safeguard consumers and build trust in Nigeria’s financial technology sector.