Airtel Nigeria, Globacom, T2 Mobile and MTN Nigeria Suspend Airtime/Data Loan Services Over New FCCPC Rules

Airtel Nigeria, Globacom, T2 Mobile and MTN Nigeria Suspend Airtime/Data Loan Services Over New FCCPC Rules—-Major telecom operators in Nigeria — MTN Nigeria, Airtel Nigeria, Globacom (Glo), and T2 Mobile — have suspended their airtime and data advance services following new regulatory requirements introduced by the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC).

The decision comes as part of efforts to comply with the FCCPC’s Digital, Electronic, Online or Non-Traditional Consumer Lending Regulations, 2025, which impose stricter licensing and compliance conditions on providers of digital credit services.

MTN, Glo, Airtel and T2 Mobile Suspend Airtime/Data Loan Services

These services, including MTN’s Xtratime and similar offerings from other networks, allow prepaid subscribers to borrow airtime or data and repay on their next recharge.

In separate disclosures, the telecom operators noted that such services now fall under the scope of the new regulations, requiring them to undergo additional approval processes before resuming operations.

The companies stated that the suspension is temporary and aimed at aligning with the updated regulatory framework governing digital lending in Nigeria.

Despite the development, subscribers can still purchase airtime and data through regular channels, while operators assured that the move is not expected to significantly impact their overall earnings.

The FCCPC’s new rules are part of broader efforts to strengthen consumer protection and ensure transparency in Nigeria’s rapidly expanding digital credit ecosystem.