The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has debunked widespread claims suggesting that airtime borrowing and data advance services have been banned across Nigeria.

In an official statement released via its 𝕏 platform, the Commission described such reports as false, misleading, and a misinterpretation of ongoing regulatory reforms within the telecom and digital lending sectors.

The clarification comes after viral social media posts triggered confusion among telecom users, many of whom feared losing access to essential value-added services such as airtime loans and data advances.

According to the FCCPC, no directive has been issued to prohibit these services. Instead, the Commission emphasized that consumers remain free to access lawful telecom offerings without restriction.

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The Commission explained that the misunderstanding stems from regulatory measures introduced in July 2025 under the DEON Consumer Lending Regulations. These reforms were designed to address growing concerns about the conduct of digital lenders and telecom service providers.

Officials noted a surge in consumer complaints, including hidden charges, unexplained deductions, and aggressive debt recovery tactics. Other concerns highlighted include poor transparency, lack of accountability, and inadequate disclosure of service terms.

Rather than eliminating services, the FCCPC stressed that the new framework aims to promote fairness and transparency. Operators are now required to properly register their services, clearly outline fees and conditions, and adopt responsible lending practices.

Additionally, telecom providers must establish accessible channels for consumer complaints, ensure data protection, and maintain accountability for third-party partners involved in service delivery.

The Commission stated that these measures are intended to strengthen consumer protection while boosting trust in Nigeria’s telecom ecosystem. By enforcing clearer standards, regulators hope to improve service quality and ensure users are not exploited.

The FCCPC also revealed that certain telecom operators had engaged in exclusionary agreements with third-party providers. These arrangements, it noted, violate the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act by limiting competition and restricting market access.

As part of its reforms, the Commission aims to open the market to a broader range of participants, including both local and international service providers. This approach aligns with free-market principles and is expected to encourage innovation and better pricing for consumers.

Telecom operators were initially given a 90-day compliance window to align with the new regulations. However, the deadline was later extended to January 5, 2026, allowing additional time for adjustments.

Despite this extension, the FCCPC noted that some operators failed to meet the requirements and continued operating models that had previously attracted consumer complaints.

Addressing reports of temporary disruptions in airtime and data advance services, the Commission clarified that such interruptions were not mandated by regulators. Instead, they were likely business or compliance decisions taken independently by service providers.

The FCCPC cautioned against attributing these disruptions to regulatory action, stressing that operators had sufficient time to comply with the new framework.

Furthermore, the Commission raised concerns about deliberate misinformation campaigns aimed at undermining its efforts. It warned that certain vested interests may be spreading false narratives to create public distrust.

Consumers were urged to rely on verified information and avoid being misled by unconfirmed reports circulating online. The FCCPC reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring a fair, transparent, and competitive telecom market that protects the interests of all Nigerians.

As regulatory oversight tightens, stakeholders expect improved service delivery and greater accountability across the sector, reinforcing confidence in Nigeria’s rapidly evolving digital economy.