MTN Nigeria has temporarily suspended its airtime and data borrowing service, Xtratime, to comply with new regulations introduced by the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC).
The company disclosed this in a filing to the Nigerian Exchange on Thursday, explaining that the move is necessary to align with the FCCPC’s 2025 rules governing digital and non-traditional consumer lending.
Xtratime allows prepaid users to borrow airtime or data and repay upon their next recharge. However, under the new regulations, such services are now classified as digital credit offerings, requiring providers to obtain additional licences and meet stricter compliance standards.
MTN stated that the suspension is temporary and part of efforts to implement the required processes under the new regulatory framework. Customers can still purchase airtime and data through other available channels.
The telecom operator also noted that the pause in Xtratime services is unlikely to significantly affect its revenue.
The updated FCCPC regulations broaden oversight of digital lending, now including telecom companies and other short-term credit providers. Businesses offering these services must register and receive approval to continue operations, with full compliance expected by April 2026.
The stricter rules reflect rising concerns about consumer debt, data protection, and lending practices in Nigeria’s growing digital credit market.
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