FCCPC Denies Reports of Ban on Airtime Borrowing and Data Advance Services
The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has firmly rejected claims suggesting that it has imposed a ban on airtime borrowing and data advance services in Nigeria. The agency characterized these reports as misleading, fueled by vested interests aiming to create confusion among the public.
In a statement released on Friday, the FCCPC clarified that there has been no cancellation or prohibition of such services, contrary to the narrative circulating on social media and in some news outlets. The commission stressed that it has issued no directives preventing consumers from accessing legitimate telecommunications value-added services.
The FCCPC further explained that its involvement in this sector stems from a notable rise in consumer complaints regarding unclear fees, unexplained deductions, aggressive debt collection strategies, and inadequate accountability from service providers offering digital loans and advance services.
New Consumer Lending Regulations Introduced
In response to these consumer concerns, the agency unveiled the DEON Consumer Lending Regulations in July 2025. This framework aims to enhance market integrity, protect consumers, and promote transparency within the telecommunications industry.
Key provisions of the regulation require service providers to register appropriately, disclose fees and terms explicitly, establish accessible channels for complaints, and comply with data protection standards. Additionally, the regulation is designed to enforce stricter accountability on third-party partners and bolster regulatory oversight.
Concerns Over Exclusive Technology Alliances
The commission has also identified that some carriers have entered into exclusive technology partnerships that breach the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act of 2018. These alliances impede competition and exclude local entities from participating in the market, according to the FCCPC.
To counteract these issues, the FCCPC is working to ensure that the market remains accessible to domestic players alongside their foreign counterparts, in line with free market principles. This initiative aims to foster a more competitive environment that benefits consumers.
Compliance Challenges and Temporary Disruptions
Despite the establishment of these regulations, the authorities have observed non-compliance from certain operators within the initial 90-day grace period following the regulations’ implementation. Even after extending the deadline to January 5, 2026, some companies reportedly failed to align their operations with the new requirements.
Consequently, the FCCPC stated that any temporary service suspensions or disruptions faced by consumers can be attributed to the business decisions of non-compliant operators, rather than any regulatory changes. “It is misleading to attribute avoidable disruptions to regulations when regulated entities were given adequate notice and opportunities to comply,” the agency added.
Countering Misinformation Campaigns
The FCCPC accused various anonymous interest groups, including foreign collaborators, of orchestrating a misinformation campaign aimed at resisting crucial reforms geared toward fostering fair and transparent markets. In light of this, the commission urged Nigerians to dismiss these misleading claims and reiterated its dedication to protecting consumers while ensuring responsible practices within the digital financial landscape.
The FCCPC concluded by reaffirming its commitment to promoting fair competition, fostering responsible innovation, and guaranteeing that transparent digital financial practices serve the public interest.
