By Faith Chondol
Two of Nigeria’s largest telecom operators, Airtel Nigeria and MTN Nigeria, have suspended their airtime and data borrowing services following new regulatory requirements governing digital lending.
The temporary suspension affects services that allow prepaid subscribers to access airtime or data on credit and repay upon their next recharge. Both companies say the move is part of efforts to comply with updated rules introduced by the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC).
Airtel, in a statement issued on Friday, noted that the pause impacts its airtime and data credit offerings but does not affect regular network services. The company assured customers that they can continue to purchase airtime and data through existing channels without disruption.
Similarly, MTN confirmed the suspension of its widely used Xtratime service, citing the need to align with the newly introduced Digital, Electronic, Online or Non-Traditional Consumer Lending Regulations, 2025. The company explained that the regulations impose stricter licensing and operational standards on all digital credit providers, including telecom operators.
According to MTN, the decision is a compliance measure rather than a commercial one, adding that the suspension is not expected to significantly impact its overall revenue.
Under the new FCCPC framework, all providers of digital lending services must register and meet specific regulatory conditions or face potential sanctions. Telecom operators have been given until April 2026 to fully comply.
Both companies emphasized that the suspension is temporary and assured subscribers that updates will be provided once the borrowing services are reinstated.
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