Court Stops Telcos from Blocking Airtime Credit Services

On April 24, 2026, the Federal High Court in Abuja issued an order preventing telecommunications companies, including MTN Nigeria Communications PLC and Airtel, from blocking airtime credit services. This ruling arose from a dispute linked to new lending regulations affecting digital lending services, including USSD and short code billing systems.

The plaintiff, Nairtime, argued that the companies' plans to restrict access would disrupt operations and violate existing agreements. The court highlighted the necessity for companies to follow contractual terms, including notice periods during disputes, rather than acting abruptly.

This case follows a similar ruling on April 15, 2026, where the court barred the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission from enforcing regulations against wireless service providers. The current ruling suspends the blocking of airtime credit services, which are crucial for prepaid users across Nigeria, until a full hearing is conducted.