MTN, Airtel, Others React as NCC Proposes 12-Month Airtime Reclaim Period

Telecommunication giants in Nigeria, including MTN, Airtel, Glo, and 9mobile, have responded to a new proposal by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), which seeks to introduce a 12-month period before reclaiming unused airtime and data from inactive SIM cards.

This new policy proposal is part of the NCC's efforts to enhance consumer protection and promote fairness in the telecom sector.

What is the NCC Proposing?

Under the proposed regulation, telecom operators will not be allowed to reclaim or wipe off airtime and data balances on SIM cards that have not been used for up to 12 months. Currently, operators can reclaim unused credit on dormant lines much sooner, often within 90 to 180 days.

The NCC says the new policy is aimed at:

• Giving customers more time to retrieve unused balances
• Reducing complaints about sudden loss of airtime
• Promoting customer-friendly telecom practices

How Did Telecom Operators React?

Telecom companies have expressed mixed reactions to the proposal.

MTN Nigeria

MTN welcomed the idea but warned that it may increase operational costs, particularly in managing dormant accounts over a longer period.

Airtel Nigeria

Airtel expressed concern about possible network congestion due to many inactive SIMs being retained longer than usual, calling for clear operational guidelines.

Glo & 9mobile

Both operators supported the consumer protection motive but urged the NCC to consider flexible options, especially for SIMs that remain inactive for business or fraud-related reasons.

NCC's Response

The NCC clarified that the proposal is still at the consultation stage and urged stakeholders to submit their input before it becomes a binding regulation.

“This initiative is designed to protect consumers while balancing industry operational realities,” the NCC said in a statement.

Industry Experts React

Telecom analysts believe the 12-month reclaim period, if approved, would:

• Benefit subscribers by reducing airtime loss
• Encourage customers to return to dormant lines
• Force operators to rethink SIM management strategies

However, some warn it could increase operational burdens and affect telecom revenue from unused credits.

What’s Next?

The NCC will continue to engage with telecom operators and consumer advocacy groups before reaching a final decision. If approved, the new rule will mandate all telecom providers in Nigeria to wait for 12 months of inactivity before reclaiming unused airtime or data from SIM cards.