Nigeria Imposes 15% Tax on Crypto Profits — Widespread Criticism Over Regulatory Confusion

Nigeria has announced a 15% tax on profits from cryptocurrency trading. The policy is already facing pushback from traders and startups who argue that the move arrived without clear compliance guidance on reporting, custody, or exchange oversight.
Context: A Top Crypto Market
Nigeria consistently ranks among the leaders in P2P crypto adoption. For many, Bitcoin, Ethereum, and stablecoins serve as alternatives in a high-inflation, capital-controlled environment. Despite this, the rulebook has been inconsistent—banking restrictions on one side, limited recognition by regulators on the other.
What Changes with the 15% Tax
- Scope: Capital gains on crypto trades face a 15% levy.
- Compliance: Details on accounting basis, offsets, and filing channels remain unclear.
- Overlap: Potential double taxation if exchange-level fees or corporate taxes are layered in.
Reactions from Traders & Builders
Local traders say they’re not against taxation—what they need is certainty. Without standardized rules for wallets, exchanges, or custodians, legitimate activity risks being penalized while gray-market trading thrives.
Risks & Unknowns
My Outlook
Nigeria’s crypto community is resilient. With clear timelines, filing tools, and collaboration with industry, this tax could formalize the sector. Without that clarity, it’s more likely to push activity underground and slow local innovation.
FAQs
Does this apply to long-term holders? If you realize profits (sell or swap), gains would be taxable unless exemptions are defined.
How do I file? Official guidance is pending; traders should track cost basis, proceeds, and fees to prepare.
Will exchanges provide statements? That depends on forthcoming rules for locally registered or approved platforms.
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