FCCPC Debunks Claims of Airtime Borrowing Ban Amid DEON Regulation Row

By Ifeyinwa Ike

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has dismissed viral reports claiming it banned airtime borrowing and data advance services in Nigeria.

In a statement by Director of Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu, the FCCPC clarified that the July 2025 DEON Consumer Lending Regulations target abusive practices like opaque charges, unexplained deductions, and poor disclosure not the services themselves.

Telecom operators failed to comply despite extensions to January 5, 2026, opting to maintain monopolistic models.

Any service disruptions stem from operators’ business decisions, not FCCPC bans. The regulations promote transparency, fair competition, and consumer protection by mandating registration, clear fees, and accountability.

The FCCPC urged the public to ignore mischievous misinformation from vested interests, reaffirming commitment to responsible innovation and consumer rights