Airtel Nigeria has suspended its airtime and data credit services due to a new regulation by the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission. The regulation, which introduces a new compliance and licensing framework, affects companies offering digital or non-traditional consumer credit services in the country. According to Airtel's Director of Marketing, Mr Ismail Adeshina, the suspension is temporary and will not have a significant impact on service delivery. The affected services allowed eligible prepaid customers to borrow airtime or data and repay on their next recharge. However, customers can still purchase airtime and data through the company's existing channels. Adeshina stated that the suspension is a necessary step to align with evolving regulatory requirements, and the company remains committed to compliance, transparency, and consumer protection. The FCCPC regulation builds on earlier guidelines issued in 2022 to strengthen oversight of digital lending in Nigeria, requiring all digital lenders to register with the commission. The registration deadline was initially set for October 31, 2025, but was extended to April 2026. Airtel Nigeria will provide updates on the status of the service in due course.
The temporary suspension of Airtel's airtime and data credit services is a direct result of the FCCPC's new regulation, which aims to strengthen oversight of digital lending in Nigeria. This move demonstrates Airtel's commitment to compliance and consumer protection, as stated by Mr Ismail Adeshina. The extension of the registration deadline to April 2026 suggests that the FCCPC is willing to work with companies to ensure full compliance. Ultimately, this development is likely to promote transparency and accountability in Nigeria's digital ecosystem.
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