MTN Nigeria has temporarily suspended its “Xtratime” airtime and data credit advance service to comply with new regulatory requirements from the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC).
In a statement filed with the Nigerian Exchange Group on Thursday, the telecommunications giant explained that the suspension is necessary to align with the Digital, Electronic, Online, or Non-Traditional Consumer Lending Regulations, 2025.
This new framework establishes stricter licensing and compliance processes for all entities providing digital or non-traditional consumer credit.
The FCCPC recently expanded its oversight to include telecommunications operators and other short-term credit providers.
Under the updated rules, companies offering airtime or data advances must register and obtain formal approval to continue operations.
While the framework builds on 2022 guidelines, it introduces more rigorous supervision to address rising concerns regarding consumer debt, data privacy, and lending practices within Nigeria’s digital economy.
MTN assured investors that the suspension is not expected to have a material impact on its overall revenue.
The company noted it is closely monitoring customer behaviour and usage trends, promising to provide updates on any quantified impact in its Q1 2026 results.
In the interim, MTN has advised customers to utilise alternative digital channels for airtime and data purchases.
