The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission has dismissed widespread claims that it banned airtime borrowing and data advance services in the country, describing the reports as false and misleading.
The clarification follows public concern sparked by viral social media posts and some media reports suggesting that the regulator had shut down telecom-based credit services used by millions of Nigerians.
In separate notices, MTN Nigeria and Airtel Nigeria announced the temporary suspension of their airtime and data credit services, which allow eligible prepaid customers to borrow and repay on their next recharge.
In a statement issued on Friday by its Director of Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu, the commission said no such directive was issued, stressing that consumers remain free to access lawful telecom value-added services.
ALSO READ:We’ve recorded 3.7 million new voters in 14 weeks — INEC
“The attention of the commission has been drawn to a series of publications and a viral anonymous post on social media suggesting that the FCCPC banned airtime borrowing and data advance services. Those claims are incorrect,” the statement read in part.
Rather than a regulatory ban, the commission linked recent disruptions to the failure of some operators to comply with its Consumer Lending Regulations introduced in July 2025.
According to the FCCPC, the rules were developed following a rise in complaints over practices such as unclear charges, unexplained deductions, and poor disclosure standards in the digital lending space.
The commission said the regulations aim to promote transparency, accountability, and fair competition by requiring proper registration, clear disclosure of terms, accessible complaint channels, and stronger oversight.
It also noted that some telecom operators engaged in anti-competitive arrangements with third-party service providers, contrary to provisions of the law, adding that the framework seeks to open the market to more participants, including local players.
The FCCPC said operators were initially given 90 days to comply with the regulations and later granted an extension until January 5, 2026, but several failed to meet the requirements.
It stressed that any temporary suspension or restriction of services should be seen as a business decision by non-compliant operators, not a government-imposed ban.
“Any operational change introduced by service providers should be understood as a compliance decision by those operators, not a ban imposed by the FCCPC,” it stated.
The commission also accused some interest groups of spreading false information to undermine reforms and urged Nigerians to rely on verified information.
It reaffirmed its commitment to protecting consumers, promoting fair competition, and ensuring responsible practices in Nigeria’s telecom and digital financial services sector.