Subscribers Fear Disruption to Airtime Lending Services

Subscribers are expressing fears of a potential disruption to airtime and data lending services as the legal dispute between the Wireless Application Service Providers Association of Nigeria (WASPAN) and the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) moves to the Court of Appeal. WASPAN has cautioned that the enforcement of the FCCPC’s Digital, Electronic, Online or Non-Traditional Consumer Lending Regulations, 2025 (DEON Regulations) could adversely impact telecom-based credit services relied upon by millions of Nigerians.

Seun Sofoluwe, a resident of Abeokuta, highlighted the difficulties that another interruption would cause for those dependent on these services. Farouk Rabiu from Lagos recounted his negative experience during a previous disruption.

Gbenga Adebayo, Chairman of ALTON, emphasized that airtime credit has evolved into essential economic infrastructure for approximately 40 million users. WASPAN is seeking a court order to prevent the FCCPC from enforcing the DEON Regulations until the appeal is resolved, arguing that immediate enforcement could lead to sanctions and service disruptions.

The FCCPC defends the regulations as necessary for consumer protection and to regulate the digital lending sector.