Telecommunications giant MTN Nigeria has announced the temporary suspension of its popular airtime and data advance service, Xtratime, in response to new regulatory directives introduced by the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC).
The company disclosed the development in a filing to the Nigerian Exchange Limited on Thursday, stating that the move is aimed at ensuring full compliance with the FCCPC’s Digital, Electronic, Online or Non-Traditional Consumer Lending Regulations, 2025.
Xtratime, widely used by prepaid subscribers, allows customers to borrow airtime or data and repay upon their next recharge. However, under the new regulatory framework, such services are now classified as digital credit offerings, subject to stricter licensing and compliance requirements.
In a statement signed by Company Secretary Uto Ukpanah, MTN confirmed that the suspension is temporary and tied to the implementation of processes required under the updated rules.
“The company has temporarily suspended its airtime and data credit advance service (‘Xtratime’) as part of efforts to comply with the new regulatory framework,” the statement read.
Despite the suspension, MTN reassured customers that alternative channels for purchasing airtime and data remain fully operational. The telecom operator also noted that the pause in service is unlikely to significantly impact its financial performance.
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According to the company, Xtratime represents a relatively small portion of its overall revenue, and the business continues to monitor customer usage patterns while preparing to provide further updates in its first-quarter 2026 results.
The FCCPC’s revised regulations expand oversight of digital lending activities to include telecom operators and other providers of short-term credit services. Companies offering such services are now required to register and obtain formal approval to continue operations.
The updated framework builds on earlier guidelines introduced in 2022, with the 2025 revision tightening rules around consumer protection, data privacy, and responsible lending practices. Full compliance and registration are expected to be completed by April 2026.
The regulatory shift underscores increasing scrutiny of Nigeria’s fast-growing digital credit sector, amid concerns over rising consumer debt and the need for stronger oversight.