FCCPC Denies Ban On Airtime Borrowing Services

FCCPC Denies Ban On Airtime Borrowing Services
Regulations aim to improve transparency and protect telecom consumers
Commission blamed operators for disruptions, not regulatory enforcement

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission has dismissed reports claiming that airtime borrowing and data advance services have been banned in Nigeria, describing the claims as false and misleading.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that the clarification was issued in a statement released on Friday via the Commission’s official X platform, following widespread confusion triggered by viral social media posts. The agency said no directive had been introduced to restrict consumers from accessing telecom value added services.

“The Commission has not prohibited airtime borrowing or data advance services, and no directive was issued preventing consumers from accessing lawful telecom value-added services,” the statement read.

The Commission explained that the misunderstanding was linked to regulatory measures introduced in July 2025 under the DEON Consumer Lending Regulations. It said the framework was developed in response to rising consumer complaints over telecom advance services and digital lending platforms.

According to the agency, complaints ranged from opaque charges and unexplained deductions to aggressive debt recovery practices, weak disclosure standards, and poor accountability among operators.

The FCCPC said the new regulations were designed to promote transparency and fairness, not eliminate services. It stated that operators are now required to register properly, disclose fees and terms clearly, adopt responsible lending practices, and provide accessible complaint channels for users.

“The primary aim is to promote a fairer and more transparent system by mandating proper registration, responsible lending conduct, clear disclosure of fees and terms, accessible consumer complaint channels, data protection safeguards, stronger accountability for third-party partners, and effective regulatory oversight,” the Commission stated.

The agency added that the reforms are expected to strengthen consumer protection and boost confidence in the telecom sector.

It also raised concerns over exclusionary agreements by some telecom operators, noting that such practices violate the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act, 2018, by limiting competition and restricting market access.

FCCPC Denies Ban On Airtime Borrowing Services

The Commission disclosed that operators were given a 90 day compliance window, later extended to January 5, 2026. It noted that some operators failed to meet the deadline and continued disputed practices.

Addressing reports of temporary service disruptions, the FCCPC said such actions were business decisions by operators, not regulatory directives, and urged Nigerians to rely on verified information.