The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has opened applications for the second cohort of its Regulatory Sandbox Programme, inviting eligible innovators, financial institutions, Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs), fintechs and technology companies to participate. The apex bank said applications for Cohort 2 would open on August 12, 2026, and close on August 31, 2026. Interested organisations are encouraged to submit their applications through the CBN Regulatory Sandbox Portal before the August 31 deadline. “Participation in the Regulatory Sandbox does not constitute a licence, authorisation, or approval to operate outside the approved testing parameters. The Sandbox is intended to facilitate responsible experimentation, strengthen regulatory engagement, and support evidence-based policy development in line with the CBN’s statutory mandate.”