Anietie Udobit, Abuja
Millions of Nigerians may soon regain access to airtime and data credit services after court rulings halted enforcement actions tied to new lending regulations.
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The Federal High Court in Abuja restrained MTN Nigeria Communications Plc and Airtel Networks Limited from suspending services linked to Nairtime Nigeria Limited, pending the outcome of a legal dispute.
A similar ruling in Lagos also barred the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission from enforcing key provisions of the controversial Digital Lending Regulations.
The services—widely used by prepaid subscribers as short-term credit—were abruptly suspended earlier in April, disrupting millions who rely on them for daily communication and small business operations.
Industry players argue the new regulations overstep jurisdiction, insisting telecom-based lending services fall under the authority of the Nigerian Communications Commission.
With transactions in the sector estimated between ₦500 billion and ₦1.2 trillion annually, analysts say the court’s intervention could restore a critical financial lifeline for many Nigerians.
The case has been adjourned, with stakeholders pushing for clarity and regulatory alignment.