Nigeria is preparing to host the RegTech Africa Conference and Expo (RACE) in 2026, signaling a significant push towards a borderless digital economy for our continent. This major continental policy and technology engagement will position Nigeria as a central hub for shaping the future of regulatory technology across Africa. The event promises to attract key stakeholders and accelerate the integration of digital solutions within our financial and governance systems, building on successes like M-Pesa and Flutterwave.

Nigeria’s Central Role in the Pan-African Digital Drive

The decision to host RACE 2026 underscores Nigeria’s growing influence in the African tech landscape. As Africa’s largest economy, with a vibrant fintech sector, Nigeria is well-positioned to lead discussions on harmonizing digital regulations and fostering cross-border transactions. We’ve seen firsthand how fragmented regulations can hinder growth, and this conference aims to address those challenges head-on. This is a crucial step towards realizing the African Union’s vision for a single digital market.

RegTech as a Catalyst for Financial Inclusion

Regulatory technology, or RegTech, is becoming increasingly vital for expanding financial inclusion across Africa. By automating compliance processes and reducing the costs associated with regulatory oversight, RegTech solutions enable financial institutions to reach underserved populations. For example, streamlined KYC (Know Your Customer) procedures powered by RegTech can onboard millions more Africans into the formal financial system, unlocking access to credit and other essential services.

Attracting Investment in Africa’s Digital Future

Events like RACE 2026 are critical for attracting investment from both local and international sources. Investors like TLcom, Partech, and Norrsken are actively seeking opportunities in Africa’s burgeoning tech sector, and a high-profile conference showcasing the continent’s innovation will undoubtedly generate further interest. Increased investment will fuel the development of innovative RegTech solutions tailored to the unique needs of African markets, driving economic growth and job creation.

Building a Unified Digital Economy by 2030

Looking ahead, the success of RACE 2026 will be measured by its impact on regional regulatory harmonization. A more unified digital economy will unlock significant opportunities for African entrepreneurs and businesses, allowing them to scale their operations across borders with greater ease. We envision a future where seamless digital transactions in NGN, KES, and ZAR are commonplace, fostering greater trade and economic integration across our continent. This conference is a pivotal step towards realizing that vision by 2030.