The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has clarified that it has not prohibited airtime borrowing or data advance services in Nigeria.
In an official statement released in Abuja, FCCPC spokesperson and Director of Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu, dismissed reports suggesting that such services had been banned, describing them as inaccurate and misleading.
Ijagwu explained that the Commission has not issued any directive restricting Nigerians from accessing legitimate telecom value-added services.
He noted that the confusion likely stems from regulatory actions introduced in July 2025, when the FCCPC implemented the Digital Economy and Online Lending (DEON) Consumer Lending Regulations
According to the Commission, these rules were designed to address growing concerns about unfair practices in the digital lending and advance-services sector.
These concerns included hidden charges, unexplained deductions, aggressive debt recovery methods, and poor transparency in service terms.
The FCCPC stated that the regulations aim to create a more transparent and consumer-friendly market by enforcing proper registration of service providers and clear disclosure of fees and conditions.
Other requirements include improved complaint resolution channels, stronger data protection measures, and enhanced accountability among service operators and their partners.
In the telecommunications sector, the Commission revealed that some operators had engaged in restrictive third-party arrangements that violate provisions of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (2018)
Ijagwu said the new regulatory framework is intended to open up the market, allowing more local participation while promoting fair competition alongside international partners.
He added that these reforms are meant to protect consumers, reduce exploitative practices, and encourage innovation within a well-regulated environment.
The FCCPC also accused certain stakeholders of spreading misinformation in an attempt to resist compliance with the new rules.
The Commission disclosed that telecom operators were initially given a 90-day window to align with the regulations, which was later extended until January 5, 2026.
However, many operators reportedly failed to meet the required compliance standards within the extended period.
Ijagwu urged Nigerians to ignore false reports about any ban and rely on official communication from regulatory authorities.
He reaffirmed the FCCPC’s commitment to safeguarding consumer rights, promoting transparency, and ensuring fair competition in Nigeria’s digital and telecommunications sectors.
