THE IMPERATIVE OF INTEGRATING FINANCIAL TECHNOLOGY (FINTECH) LAW INTO NIGERIAN UNIVERSITY LEGAL CURRICULA

Abstract

This paper examines the imperative of integrating Financial Technology (FinTech) law into Nigerian university legal curricula, in response to the accelerating transformation of financial systems driven by digital innovation. As FinTech continues to reshape commerce, banking, regulation, and consumer protection, there is a pressing need to reform legal education to produce lawyers who are equipped to navigate these emerging realities. A doctrinal research methodology is employed, involving the analysis of relevant legislation, regulatory frameworks, and policy documents. The findings reveal that the current structure of Nigerian legal education does not adequately incorporate FinTech law, thereby contributing to a significant skills gap among law graduates. The paper argues that a well-designed FinTech law curriculum cannot only align Nigerian legal education with global trends but also enhance the employability, relevance, and competence of Nigerian lawyers in an increasingly digitized legal and financial environment. The paper therefore advocates for integrating FinTech law into Nigerian university legal curricula through a structured, practice-oriented approach. It recommends a comprehensive framework for this integration that emphasizes the development of core competencies in digital literacy, regulatory compliance, financial risk analysis, and the ethical application of technology within both legal and financial sectors.