The Federal Government, through the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), has released a list of firms officially cleared to offer airtime and data lending services across Nigeria.
The announcement was made under the commission’s regulatory framework for digital lenders and covers companies authorised to run airtime and data advance solutions via mobile platforms.
The initiative is intended to boost consumer protection, enhance transparency, and enforce compliance with updated lending rules in the country’s fast-growing digital credit space.
Among the companies approved to operate are:
- Total TIM Nigeria Limited
- Rane Interactive Medien CLS Limited
- Mode NG Applications Nigeria Limited
- Cloud Interactive Associate Limited
- Coverage Broadband Limited.
Some of these services are delivered through telecom platforms like Globacom’s SUN network, enabling users to borrow airtime or data and repay later.
This development comes amid tighter regulations in Nigeria’s lending ecosystem.
Recently, major telecom providers such as MTN Nigeria and Airtel Nigeria suspended their airtime and data advance services to comply with the new requirements.
Offerings like Airtel’s airtime advance were paused temporarily while both operators worked to align with the revised guidelines. They, however, maintained that regular airtime and data purchases remain unaffected.
A report by TechCabal indicates that telecom companies are still reviewing the updated rules introduced by the FCCPC in July 2025.
The framework extends regulatory oversight to all forms of digital and non-traditional lending, including telecom-based credit services, requiring operators to obtain proper licensing.
Although the recent suspensions initially caused confusion, the FCCPC clarified that there is no ban on airtime or data lending. Instead, it explained that the disruption resulted from non-compliance within the given deadline.
The commission emphasised that the rules apply to any service involving repayable value, including products like MTN’s Xtratime.
Airtel Nigeria also reaffirmed its commitment to compliance, transparency, and customer protection while continuing to innovate within Nigeria’s evolving digital finance sector.
