Airtime Borrowing Ban Sparks Backlash

Airtime Borrowing Ban Sparks Backlash

Nigerian telecom users have reacted strongly after the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission halted airtime borrowing services across networks.

The *303# code, widely used for quick credit, has been inactive for days, leaving many stranded.

Subscribers say the disruption has hit hardest among low-income users who depend on it for urgent calls and messages.

The restriction followed a directive issued in early April under the Digital, Electronic, Online, or Non-Traditional Consumer Lending Regulations 2025.

Telecom operators were ordered to stop offering the service due to alleged non-compliance with rules requiring approved service providers.

Firms were also told to confirm compliance or risk penalties under existing laws.

Across cities like Lagos, Port Harcourt and Abuja, users say the service helped them manage daily expenses and stay connected during emergencies.

Many described the ban as poorly timed, arguing that it removes a simple support system at a time of rising living costs.

Small business owners also complained that the outage has disrupted communication and affected their work.

Industry stakeholders have called for clarity and better coordination among regulators to avoid further disruption.

Meanwhile, the Wireless Application Service Providers Association of Nigeria secured a court order stopping enforcement of the regulation for now.

Despite this, the service remains unavailable, leaving millions unsure when it will return.