This study examines the impact of blockchain adoption on financial inclusion in rural Nigeria between 2009 and 2024, using rural bank deposit volumes as a proxy. Blockchain adoption is measured through the Blockchain Readiness Index, cryptocurrency exchange volume, and aggregated interest in Bitcoin futures. Employing the ARDL bounds testing framework alongside unit root, diagnostic, and stability tests, the findings confirm long-run cointegration between blockchain indicators and financial inclusion, indicating a systematic and enduring relationship. In the long-run, BRI emerges as a strong, positive, and significant driver of rural bank development, highlighting the importance of institutional preparedness, infrastructure, and supportive frameworks in lowering barriers to rural financial access. Conversely, cryptocurrency exchange volume negatively affects rural bank development, suggesting that speculative and unregulated trading undermines grassroots financial stability, while the aggregated open interests on Bitcoin futures prove insignificant, reflecting the limited relevance of crypto-derivatives in rural finance. Short-run effects are generally weak but significant; negative error correction terms indicate convergence toward long-run equilibrium, suggesting that blockchain’s immediate impact is limited while its benefits accumulate over time. Policy implications emphasise the need for robust regulatory oversight, expansion of digital infrastructure, financial literacy programs, and incentives for rural banking innovation. Additionally, blockchain-based identity systems and secure transaction frameworks can enhance trust and participation. The study recommends that blockchain adoption holds transformative potential for advancing inclusive finance in rural Nigeria, with long-term benefits contingent on supportive institutional, regulatory, and infrastructural interventions.