FCCPC Denies Ban on Airtime Loans, Clarifies Telecom Regulations

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has dismissed reports suggesting a ban on airtime borrowing and data advance services, describing such claims as false and misleading.

In a statement released on Friday via its official X account, the Commission clarified that it has not issued any directive restricting consumers from accessing legitimate telecom value-added services.

According to the FCCPC, services such as airtime loans and data advances remain available, and any disruptions experienced by users are not the result of regulatory action.

The Commission explained that the confusion stems from measures introduced in July 2025 under its digital lending framework, which was designed to address growing consumer complaints. These complaints included hidden charges, unexplained deductions, aggressive recovery tactics, poor disclosure practices, and weak accountability among service providers.

Rather than banning services, the regulations aim to improve transparency and fairness by requiring operators to properly register, clearly disclose fees and terms, and adopt responsible lending practices. The framework also mandates accessible complaint channels and stronger oversight.

The FCCPC noted that some telecom operators had engaged in practices that limited competition, in violation of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act, 2018. The new rules are intended to open the market to broader participation while protecting consumers.

Operators were initially given a 90-day window to comply with the regulations, later extended to January 5, 2026. However, the Commission said some providers failed to meet the deadline and continued operating under questionable models.

It added that any temporary suspension of services should be seen as a business or compliance decision by the operators themselves—not a directive from the regulator.

The Commission also warned against the spread of misinformation, urging Nigerians to rely on verified sources and accurate updates regarding telecom services.