By Emmanuella Oghenetega
Telecommunications giants MTN Nigeria Communications Plc and Airtel Nigeria have temporarily suspended their popular airtime and data borrowing service, Xtratime, following new regulatory requirements introduced by the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC).
The decision was disclosed in a corporate filing to the Nigerian Exchange on Thursday, where both companies explained that the move is necessary to comply with the FCCPC’s newly issued Digital, Electronic, Online or Non-Traditional Consumer Lending Regulations, 2025.
According to MTN, Xtratime allows eligible prepaid subscribers to borrow airtime or data and repay on their next recharge, a service widely used across Nigeria. However, the new regulations now require all providers of digital or non-traditional credit services to meet updated licensing and compliance standards.
In a statement signed by Company Secretary Uto Ukpanah, MTN confirmed the suspension, noting that it is part of efforts to implement the processes required under the new rules. The company added that customers can still purchase airtime and data through existing channels while the service remains paused.
Similarly, Airtel Nigeria described the move as both necessary and responsible. Its Director of Marketing, Ismail Adeshina, said the company is aligning its operations with evolving regulatory expectations while maintaining its commitment to transparency, compliance, and consumer protection.
Both operators reassured customers that the suspension will not disrupt regular airtime and data purchases, nor will it affect network quality or overall service delivery. MTN also indicated that the temporary halt is unlikely to have a significant impact on its earnings.
The new FCCPC regulations build on earlier digital lending guidelines introduced in 2022, expanding oversight to include telecom operators offering credit-based services such as airtime and data advances. Under the updated framework, all affected providers must register with the Commission.
Operators have been given until April 2026 to complete this process under transitional arrangements. FCCPC CEO, Tunji Bello, warned that companies that fail to comply within the stipulated period may face further regulatory action.
The development reflects increasing regulatory scrutiny of digital lending services within Nigeria’s telecom sector, as authorities move to strengthen consumer protection and enforce stricter compliance standards.
