Blockchain.com has announced the establishment of its first physical office in Africa, located in Lagos, Nigeria’s economic hub. This move not only signifies the company’s long-term commitment to the African market but also reflects the ongoing expansion of the global digital finance ecosystem into emerging markets.
The decision to choose Nigeria for this expansion was based on several factors. Nigeria has one of the largest internet user populations in Africa, ranks among the global leaders in digital asset adoption, boasts a youthful demographic, and is steadily developing a clearer regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies.
According to the company, the Lagos office will serve as the regional hub for its West African operations and is expected to create at least 50 local jobs within the next year. These positions will span software development, operations support, marketing, and compliance. At the same time, Blockchain.com plans to collaborate with local universities and policymakers to promote blockchain education and improve fintech regulatory standards.
Owenize Odia, General Manager for Africa at Blockchain.com, noted that Africa is undergoing a structural transformation in digital finance, with Nigeria at the forefront of this shift. “As crypto policies become more defined, we are seeing a growing willingness from users and institutions to legally enter the market. We aim to build trust through localized services and expand the possibilities of the entire ecosystem,” he said.
Since Nigeria revised its Investment and Securities Act in 2023, officially recognizing crypto asset platforms as legitimate market participants, the country has shifted from an outright ban to encouraging orderly regulation.
The Nigerian Securities and Exchange Commission has also started accepting license applications from companies including Blockchain.com, signaling a supportive stance towards digital finance.
The African continent is accelerating its digital economic transformation. Ghana plans to release cryptocurrency regulations by 2025, and Kenya is actively researching related policies. This trend shows that more African countries are moving from a “wait-and-see” approach to proactive action, creating new opportunities for international companies.
Odia emphasized, “Africa has the world’s youngest and most tech-savvy user base, with most people relying on smartphones for financial activities. Crypto technology can enable more convenient and low-cost cross-border payments, potentially bypassing traditional banking systems.”
As an early player in the blockchain industry, Blockchain.com has served over 90 million users worldwide since its founding in 2011, with a total transaction volume exceeding $1 trillion. Despite frequent market fluctuations globally, the company remains focused on expanding its global footprint, particularly in emerging regions with increasingly clear regulatory landscapes.
The Lagos state government has welcomed the investment, stating that the project will contribute to digital skills training, job creation, and the overall development of the tech ecosystem.
As global acceptance of digital assets continues to grow, Blockchain.com’s entry into Nigeria represents not only a strategic market move but also a key step toward shaping the future of financial infrastructure.