Airtel Nigeria has announced the temporary suspension of its airtime and data credit services. This makes it the second major telecom operator in the country to halt such offerings following new regulatory requirements for digital lending.

The company disclosed this in a statement signed by its Director of Corporate Communications and CSR, Femi Adesina released on Friday The affected services previously allowed eligible prepaid subscribers to borrow airtime or data and repay on their next recharge.

The suspension follows a similar move by MTN Nigeria Communications Plc announced a day earlier, citing the implementation of processes required under the Digital, Electronic, Online or Non-Traditional Consumer Lending Regulations, 2025

Under the new regulations, a compliance and licensing framework has been introduced for companies providing digital or alternative consumer credit services in Nigeria—an area under which airtime and data advance products may fall.

Airtel said customers will continue to enjoy uninterrupted access to airtime and data purchases through its existing channels, despite the temporary suspension. The company also stated that the development is not expected to materially affect service standards across the country.

Commenting on the decision, Airtel Nigeria’s Director of Marketing, Ismail Adeshina said the move is aimed at ensuring regulatory compliance.