Nigeria holds massive potential when it comes to cryptocurrency. With a large number of crypto users, large trading platforms like Binance, Bybit, and Coinbase compete to have a significant place in this market. This makes it important for you to know the best crypto exchanges in Nigeria and decide which one fits you the most.
In this article, I will address some important questions like: “Is crypto legal in Nigeria?”, “Is Binance available in Nigeria?”, and “What is the best Bitcoin app in Nigeria?”.
More importantly, I will provide short reviews on the top crypto exchanges in Nigeria and how they can fulfill the needs of crypto users in the country.
Here are the exchanges that I will cover in this article:
Let's begin!
Best Crypto Exchange in Nigeria: Evaluation Criteria
When choosing the best crypto exchanges in Nigeria, it is important to consider their general characteristics and what makes them best for Nigerian clients. Here are the six essential evaluation criteria:
- Fiat Compatibility: Local fiat compatibility is crucial for a good crypto exchange because it allows users to easily deposit and withdraw in their local currency, reducing transaction costs and exchange rate risks. For Nigerian clients, NGN compatibility simplifies the process, making it more convenient and cost-effective to trade cryptocurrencies directly with NGN, enhancing their trading experience.
- Security: Security is paramount for a good crypto exchange because it protects users' investments from theft and unauthorized access. Robust security measures like two-factor authentication, encryption, and cold storage ensure that users' funds and personal information are safe, building trust and confidence in the platform's reliability and integrity.
- Supported Coins: Having a variety of supported coins is essential for a top-notch crypto exchange because they determine the diversity and flexibility of trading options available to users. A wide selection of cryptocurrencies allows traders to diversify their portfolios, capitalize on market opportunities, and engage with emerging digital assets, enhancing their trading experience and potential for profit.
- Fees: Fees and limits are the next evaluation criteria when choosing the best crypto app in Nigeria. Reasonable fees ensure that traders can maximize their profits, while flexible limits accommodate both high-volume traders and those starting with smaller amounts.
- Trading Features: The exchange’s trading features are an important characteristic because they enhance the trading experience through advanced tools like charting, margin trading, and automated trading options. These features empower traders to make informed decisions, execute strategies effectively, and potentially increase their returns on investments.
- Customer Support: Like any other service provider, the quality of an exchange's customer support determines its suitability for clients. Effective support builds trust, fosters a positive user experience, and retains users by demonstrating the platform's commitment to their satisfaction and resolving potential problems efficiently.
These factors contribute to providing the best user experience for crypto exchange clients. While it's ideal to have all of these characteristics in your chosen exchange, selecting a few that match your needs and preferences is also an acceptable approach.
1. Bybit – Large African Users Base
Ranks #1 out of 10 Crypto Exchanges
- + Very low trading fees
- + Exceptional functionality
- + Mobile trading app
- + Helpful customer support
- + Up to 100x leverage
- - Might have a steep learning curve
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Bybit has quickly risen to become a favorite among Nigerian customers, especially following the Binance ban in Nigeria. This platform has secured its place as one of the top crypto exchanges in Nigeria, thanks to its user-friendly interface, extensive coin selection, and robust security features. Its commitment to providing a seamless trading experience has attracted a wide user base, from beginners to seasoned traders.
Bybit currently has more than 15 million active users worldwide and has become the second-largest crypto exchange in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. With support for over 400 coins and 300+ spot trading pairs, you have plenty of flexibility to customize your trading strategy and explore a wide range of digital assets. Plus, you can take advantage of market movements to make the most of your trades.
Bybit currently does not offer trading pairs in NGN. However, you can purchase cryptocurrency with NGN on the Bybit exchange through its P2P marketplace or third-party crypto onramps.
By using this platform, you can enjoy very competitive fees. Bybit only charges a 0.1% fee on spot trades, which can be reduced by improving your account level. And the best part? You can enjoy P2P trading for free.
As one of the top exchanges in Nigeria, Bybit offers reliable security measures to safeguard your assets. With features like Triple-layer Asset Protection and advanced data security, you can rest easy, knowing your funds and personal information are safe.
Last but not least, Bybit offers support through various channels like live chat, support tickets, social media, and online communities; making it easier for you to reach them.
2. Binance – One of The Most Popular Exchanges Worldwide
Ranks #2 out of 10 Crypto Exchanges
- + A variety of trading options
- + Supports +500 cryptocurrencies
- + Secure & reliable
- + Multiple advanced features
- - Might be a bit confusing for newcomers
Binance stands out as one of the best crypto exchanges in Nigeria, offering a wide array of services tailored to meet the needs of Nigerian crypto enthusiasts. This platform has made a significant mark in the country by providing a gateway to the cryptocurrency market.
Binance offers robust security measures, a crucial aspect for anyone looking to trade or invest in cryptocurrencies. Users can trade with confidence, knowing their investments are protected through advanced security protocols like two-factor authentication (2FA) and a thorough Know Your Customer (KYC) process.
Currently, Binance supports more than 500 coins in its platform, including popular options like BTC, ETH, and, XRP. This wide range of choices allows you to diversify your investment portfolio, explore emerging cryptocurrencies, and capitalize on market opportunities with ease.
As one of the best crypto exchanges in Nigeria, Binance offers some of the most competitive rates on the market. It charges a standard 0.1% fee on every spot trade, but here's some good news: you can get a 25% discount if you use Binance Coin (BNB) to cover the fees. Plus, if you increase your 30-day trading volume and BNB balance, you can lower these fees even more.
However, these benefits come with a caveat. You might have heard about the Binance ban in Nigeria that happened in early March 2024. Due to some regulatory challenges from the local government, Binance decided to disable all services involving the Nigerian naira (NGN).
Because of the Binance ban in Nigeria, local users can no longer trade or cash out their assets to NGN. All of the remaining NGN balance was converted to USDT and users have to use third-party services to convert their assets to local fiat currency.
So, if you are wondering: “Is Binance available in Nigeria?”. The answer is, technically yes. You can still buy and trade crypto using the platform. But, you will need to go through more hoops to do your transaction like withdrawing money from Binance.
Regardless, Binance still proves to be one of the best crypto trading apps in Nigeria with all of its features, competitive fees, and a wide range of supported crypto.
3. Coinbase – Renown Exchange With an Intuitive Interface
Ranks #3 out of 10 Crypto Exchanges
- + Fiat currencies - accepted
- + Simple to use
- + Accepts only the most trustworthy cryptocurrencies
- + Very secure
- - Some of the less-known coins aren't supported
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Coinbase is another big brand that has established itself as one of the best crypto exchanges in the world, offering a reliable and straightforward platform for Nigerians to buy, sell, and manage their cryptocurrency portfolio. Coinbase is highly accessible for beginners with advanced features for experienced traders. This balance between simplicity and depth is why Coinbase is often recommended as one of the best crypto apps in Nigeria.
As one of the best crypto exchanges in Nigeria, Coinbase provides an impressive range of cryptocurrencies. Currently, the platform supports over 200 coins, including popular options and numerous altcoins. This variety ensures that Nigerian users can diversify their investments and explore different cryptocurrencies within a single platform.
It's worth noting that Coinbase tends to charge higher fees compared to other top crypto exchanges in Nigeria. Additionally, it can be hard to check its fee structure. The only way to know your fees is when you check the confirmation page for each transaction.
In terms of security measures, Coinbase offers state-of-the-art features and technology. It stores 99% of users' funds offline to safeguard them from cyber-attacks. Its strict KYC process also helps prevent fraudulent users from entering the Coinbase ecosystem and abusing the platform.
Additionally, the Coinbase Wallet app is considered a solid Web3 wallet solution due to its simplicity. Its intuitive interface makes it easy to manage your assets from anywhere, at any time.
However, keep in mind that currently Coinbase doesn’t include NGN as one of its supported fiat currencies. So, you may have to use another platform to convert your assets to fiat and withdraw it to your bank account.
Did you know?
Compare Crypto Exchanges Side by Side With Others
All Crypto Exchanges may look similar to you but they're NOT all the same!
4. KuCoin – Easy Transaction for Nigerian Users
Ranks #4 out of 10 Crypto Exchanges
- + Strong security measures
- + Over 700 supported cryptocurrencies
- + A variety of trading and earning features
- + Competitive fees
- - Not available for US traders
- - Might be somewhat complicated for beginners
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KuCoin has rapidly gained a reputation as one of the top crypto exchanges in Nigeria, offering a wide range of services that cater to the needs of both new and experienced traders in the Nigerian market.
KuCoin offers various user-friendly tools and features, such as derivatives, spot trading, and a built-in P2P exchange, enhancing the trading experience for its users. You can use the P2P platform to trade crypto with NGN and withdraw your funds directly to your bank account.
KuCoin claims that its P2P platform is free of charge, meaning that you can buy and sell your crypto without worrying about additional fees. Depositing funds to KuCoin is seamless since you can deposit NGN to the platform using direct bank deposits or through debit or credit cards.
Nigerian users can also benefit from the NGN-USDT deposit feature. The platform supports a wide range of payment methods, including PalmPay, Kuda Bank, and Treasura.
Another key feature that positions KuCoin among the best crypto exchanges in Nigeria is its extensive cryptocurrency selection with more than 700 coins. This diversity allows Nigerian users to explore a broad array of digital assets, from well-known cryptocurrencies like BTC and ETH to emerging altcoins.
Security is a top priority for KuCoin, ensuring that users' assets are protected with sophisticated safety measures. The platform lets you access the Proof of Reserve (PoR) data to make sure your funds are safe.
Additionally, KuCoin's customer support is responsive and helpful, providing assistance whenever needed, which is particularly beneficial for those new to cryptocurrency trading.
5. Kraken – Reliable Security Measures
Ranks #5 out of 10 Crypto Exchanges
- + Secure and reliable
- + Low fees
- + A good amount of fiat currencies accepted
- - Not the most helpful customer service
Kraken has established itself as one of the best crypto exchanges in Nigeria, offering a robust platform that caters to the diverse needs of Nigerian cryptocurrency enthusiasts.
One of the standout features of Kraken is its commitment to security. This is a crucial aspect for Nigerian users, who prioritize the safety of their digital assets. Kraken employs sophisticated security measures by storing your funds in offline storage.
You can also protect your account using 2FA with Google Authenticator or Yubikey. Additionally, Kraken implements email confirmations for withdrawals with a self-serve account lock. This dedication to security has helped Kraken build trust among its Nigerian user base, establishing it as a safe and reliable platform for cryptocurrency trading.
In addition to its security features, Kraken offers a decent selection of cryptocurrencies, including BTC, ETH, and many others. At the time of writing, the platform supports more than 200 coins and 600+ trading pairs. Even though this is less than other best crypto exchanges in Nigeria, this should still suffice for most users.
Kraken is also celebrated as the best Bitcoin app in Nigeria, thanks to its wide range of trading features, including spot, margin, futures trading, and an NFT marketplace. The exchange supports multiple fiat currencies, including USD, EUR, CAD, GBP, CHF, JPY and AUD.
Unfortunately, it doesn’t support NGN, so you’ll have to use a third-party platform to deposit funds.
The fees associated with Kraken's trading features are relatively higher than other best crypto exchanges in Nigeria, but they vary depending on the service. For example, the fees for spot trading range from 0% to 0.25% for makers and 0.10% to 0.40% for takers.
All in all, Kraken is still a solid choice for those looking for the best crypto app in Nigeria. With its advanced security features, a wide range of supported cryptocurrencies, and a user-friendly interface, it provides a reliable and efficient trading environment for both beginners and experienced traders alike.
6. Paxful – Leading P2P Marketplace
Ranks #6 out of 10 Crypto Exchanges
- + Many payment options
- + Peer-to-Peer BTC marketplace
- + PayPal support
- + 2% referral program
- - Limited number of supported cryptocurrencies
- - Limited to P2P trading
Paxful is the leading P2P crypto marketplace worldwide, which makes it a contender of the best crypto exchanges in Nigeria. With its user-centric approach, the platform provides an accessible and secure environment for buying, selling, and trading cryptocurrencies.
What sets Paxful apart as the best Bitcoin app in Nigeria is its emphasis on peer-to-peer transactions. This feature allows you to trade directly with others from around the world, using a variety of payment methods that include bank transfers, gift cards, and even cash. This flexibility is particularly valuable in Nigeria, where traditional banking methods can be limiting for cryptocurrency transactions.
One of Paxful’s main strengths that makes it the best Bitcoin app in Nigeria is its wide range of payment methods. At the time of writing, Paxful supports 470 methods, which include various popular digital wallets, like Apple Pay, Paypal, M-Pesa, and Google Pay.
You will also get access to Paxful Wallet for free when registering to the platform. It offers flexibility by giving you more than 300 ways to buy and sell Bitcoin. The wallet also works perfectly with Paxful’s P2P platform.
Security is a top priority on Paxful, reassuring Nigerian users that their transactions are protected. The platform employs robust security measures, including 2FA and an escrow system, to ensure the safety of users' funds during transactions. This commitment to security contributes to Paxful's reputation as one of the best crypto exchanges in Nigeria.
Moreover, Paxful's user interface is designed with simplicity in mind, making it easy for both beginners and experienced traders to navigate the platform. This ease of use is complemented by an educational section that provides valuable information about cryptocurrencies and how to trade them safely and effectively.
With its peer-to-peer trading model, flexible payment options, strong security measures, and excellent customer service, Paxful rightly earns its place as both the best crypto exchange in Nigeria and one of the best crypto exchanges in Nigeria overall. It offers Nigerian users a reliable and convenient platform for engaging with the global cryptocurrency market.
7. OKX – Low Fees and Convenient Transaction
Ranks #7 out of 10 Crypto Exchanges
- + Strong security
- + 650+ trading pairs
- + Good functionality
- + Low fees
- - Not recommended for newbies
If you’re looking for the best crypto exchanges in Nigeria with a zero-fee P2P platform, then OKX should be one of your top choices. OKX, known for its comprehensive trading options has quickly become one of the top crypto exchanges in Nigeria. You can deposit your funds easily using its P2P platform or the built-in crypto onramp. However, OKX doesn’t currently support NGN trading pairs.
This platform makes buying cryptocurrencies super easy. You can use your favorite digital wallets like Apple Pay or Google Pay to make payments hassle-free. Its dedication to providing a wide range of cryptocurrencies and innovative trading features places OKX in a leading position among the crypto trading platforms in Nigeria.
OKX supports over 300 coins, including popular options like BTC, ETH, and SOL, so you will likely find the crypto you're looking for.
Another reason why OKX is considered one of the best crypto exchanges in Nigeria is because of its value for money. Trading fees start at 0.060% for spot trading and decrease with higher trading volumes or larger stakes in the OKB token. Futures, swaps, and options have different rates with varying fees.
In terms of security, OKX implements industry-standard practices to safeguard users’ funds and data. These measures include using cold storage for storing assets, withdrawal password feature users, and anti-phishing codes. You need to complete at least Level 1 KYC verification to use the services. Nigerian users can use their NIN identity cards for verification.
Additionally, OKX provides educational resources to help users understand the market and make informed trading decisions, further enhancing its appeal to the Nigerian audience.
Customer support is another area where OKX excels. The platform offers a robust live chat feature with self-service functionalities. You can also check the Announcement page to get updates related to the platform.
OKX's combination of a user-friendly interface, advanced security, a wide range of cryptocurrencies, and excellent customer support cements its status as one of the top crypto exchanges in Nigeria. Its commitment to providing a reliable and efficient trading platform makes OKX a solid choice for Nigerian crypto enthusiasts.
8. HTX – 0.2% Maximum Taker and Maker Fees
Ranks #8 out of 10 Crypto Exchanges
- + Very low fees
- + User-friendly interface
- + Most crypto assets are stored offline
- + 24/7 customer support
- - Only crypto assets available to be exchanged
HTX, formerly known as Huobi, has emerged as a notable platform in the Nigerian cryptocurrency market, gaining attention for its robust crypto options and competitive fees. While it may not be as widely recognized as some of the biggest names in the industry, HTX offers distinct advantages that position it as one of the best crypto exchanges in Nigeria, especially for those interested in Bitcoin and other digital assets.
HTX claims that it supports more than “700 prime digital assets”, which include popular coins, like XRP, LTC, and ADA. This focus ensures that users have access to the most popular and widely traded digital currency, along with other options for diversifying their investments.
The platform's trading tools and features are tailored to help users make informed decisions, whether they're buying, selling, or trading cryptocurrencies. Currently, HTX offers margin trading, futures, leveraged ETPs, and staking.
HTX, like other best crypto trading apps in Nigeria such as Binance, OKX, and KuCoin, has a tiered fee structure. The basic trading fee rate for HTX is 0.2% per trade. However, you can receive a discount on trading fees based on your trading volume and the amount of HTX coins you hold. Keep in mind that NGN is not supported as a fiat currency on HTX at the time of writing. So you may need to use third-party crypto onramps to withdraw and deposit funds.
In terms of security, HTX adheres to the industry's best practices. It safeguards your funds in a cold multi-signature wallet with 24/7 platform monitoring. Additionally, it maintains a Security Reserve Fund of 20,000 BTC as an extra precaution.
HTX also implements other basic security features, including 2FA, trading passwords, and an account freeze option. You can use some of the basic trading functionality without passing any KYC process. This includes depositing up to $1,000 and withdrawing up to 0.006 BTC within 24 hours.
While HTX is still growing its presence in Nigeria, its wide range of crypto options, extensive trading features, and robust security measures make it one of the best crypto exchanges in Nigeria.
9. Luno – High Compatibility with NGN
Ranks #9 out of 10 Crypto Exchanges
- + KYC & AML compliance
- + High emphasis on security
- + Beginner-friendly
- - Doesn't support many crypto assets
- - Few advanced features
Luno is one of the best crypto exchanges in Nigeria, thanks to its straightforward approach to cryptocurrency trading. One of its main strengths is its compatibility with NGN. You can easily deposit and withdraw funds with various methods, including bank transfers, debit/credit cards, and Naira vouchers. This makes it easier for Nigerian clients to use the platform.
As one of the top crypto exchanges in Nigeria, Luno also stands out for its straightforward and competitive fee structure. Luno charges a 2% fee on deposits and withdrawals with a maximum charge of NGN 2,000 per deposit. Trading fees vary between trading pairs, ranging from 0% to 0.4%. This fee is based on your trading volume within the last 30 days.
In terms of crypto options, Luno supports popular coins like BTC, ETH, SOL, XRP, and ADA. However, it offers limited options when compared to other best crypto apps in Nigeria. So, this should be your consideration, especially if you’re planning on investing in less-known coins.
Luno also claims to implement strategic security practices on its platform. It protects clients’ funds with the ‘deep freeze’ security structure on its multi-signature wallet. Users also need to complete at least the level 1 KYC verification process to use Luno.
Another reason Luno is considered one of the best crypto exchanges in Nigeria is its customer support. It offers assistance through its dedicated customer help center and social media account, ensuring that users can get answers to their questions and resolve any issues promptly.
Luno's combination of educational resources, stringent security measures, and exceptional customer support solidifies its position as one of the best crypto exchanges in Nigeria. However, you may want to look for other options if you prefer a wider selection of assets.
10. Quidax – Specialized for Nigerian Crypto Users
Ranks #10 out of 10 Crypto Exchanges
- + 2FA, high security
- + Good customer support
- + Built-in exchange wallet
- - High fees
- - Regional exchange (no USD or EUR support)
Another entry in this list of best crypto exchanges in Nigeria is Quidax, it offers a platform that caters to the needs of Nigerian crypto enthusiasts. With its high compatibility with NGN, Quidax has established itself as a go-to destination for Nigerian clients looking to dive into the crypto market.
One of the key reasons Quidax is considered among the best crypto exchanges in Nigeria is its commitment to simplifying crypto trading for the African market. It allows crypto purchases using NGN through its crypto onramp and the Quidax exchange.
You can deposit funds using three different methods, including Quidax Direct, Quidax Pocket, and voucher. Quidax Direct lets you deposit funds using bank transfer, while Quidax Pocket is the option if you want to connect third-party fintech applications to your account.
The platform charges different deposit and withdrawal fees ranging from NGN 100-2500 depending on the amount of transaction. Quidax also charges a 0.1% trading fee and withdrawal fees for crypto assets.
Moreover, Quidax has been acknowledged as the best crypto trading app in Nigeria, thanks to its mobile application that offers a seamless trading experience on the go. The app allows users to execute trades, monitor their portfolios, and access real-time market data from anywhere, at any time.
The platform currently supports over 25 different cryptocurrencies, including popular options such as BTC, ETH, and DOGE. Although this selection can be considered small compared to other best crypto exchanges in Nigeria, it is still sufficient for those who prefer trading popular coins.
In terms of security, Quidax also follows the essential measures. You can use features like 2FA and passwords to protect your account. However, Quidax doesn’t share any other details regarding the technology it uses to safeguard its platform.
Quidax's user-friendly platform, comprehensive range of cryptocurrencies, top-notch security, and exceptional mobile app make it one of the best crypto exchanges in Nigeria. Its dedication to providing a seamless and secure trading environment has made it one of the best crypto trading apps in Nigeria, catering to the needs of both novice and experienced traders alike.
Crypto Landscape in Nigeria
The cryptocurrency market is a vast global industry that generated $40.7 billion in revenue in 2023. This financial potential has led to young people in Nigeria leveraging virtual currency to create job opportunities and wealth[1].
Despite the promises offered by this innovation, there are inherent risks for criminal acts[2], like money laundering, terrorist financing, and tax evasion. So now you might wonder: “Is crypto legal in Nigeria?” The answer is “Yes”, but with some caveats.
The Nigerian government has adopted new laws and regulations to try and control this new and ‘untamed’ industry. One of the most recent examples of policy development led to the Binance ban in Nigeria, along with other popular exchanges. The local authorities claimed that this was done in an effort to prevent the manipulation of the forex market and illicit movement of funds.
While stricter regulations can help the country harness the generative potential of the market while protecting its citizens[3], it also makes it harder for some popular exchanges to operate in the country. As a result, clients needed to go through additional hoops to use their favorite exchanges, or worse, find an alternative.
Because of this, Nigerian clients need to navigate the local crypto landscape with more vigilance. It is important to stay informed about regulatory changes, be ready for more adjustments to the landscape, and follow the essential security steps to protect your assets.
In short, answering “Is crypto legal in Nigeria?” requires a lot of nuance. While technically it is still accessible for Nigerian users, the landscape is still very volatile with imminent regulatory changes. However, as long as stakeholders adhere to regulatory compliance, cryptocurrency and blockchain technology in general still hold massive potential for the country.
Conclusions
Finding the best crypto exchanges in Nigeria is not an easy task. While you can always follow the evaluation criteria to look for a solution that ticks the most boxes, in practice it will not always give you a straight answer.
In this article, I’ve listed 10 popular exchanges like Binance, Bybit, and Coinbase that have the potential to be “the best crypto app in Nigeria”. These platforms have their own strengths and drawbacks, that may attract or deter different types of users depending on their specific needs.
Remember to start by recognizing your preferences when looking for the best crypto trading app in Nigeria. It is also important to stay informed about regulatory changes and adjust your approach to match the volatile landscape.
The content published on this website is not aimed to give any kind of financial, investment, trading, or any other form of advice. BitDegree.org does not endorse or suggest you to buy, sell or hold any kind of cryptocurrency. Before making financial investment decisions, do consult your financial advisor.
Scientific References
1. Onyekwere E., Ogwueleka F.N., Irhebhude M.E.: 'Adoption and sustainability of bitcoin and the blockchain technology in Nigeria';
2. Onyeke C.E.: 'Crypto-Currency and the Nigerian Economy: Problems and Prospects';
3. Gidigbi M.O., Babarinde G.F., Adewusi O.A., et al: 'Legal Issues and Risks Associated With Cryptocurrency (In Nigeria): Regulation for Use and Integration for Its Possibilities'