MTN Nigeria Communications Plc has temporarily suspended its airtime and data credit advance service, Xtratime, as it moves to comply with new regulatory requirements governing digital lending in the country. The suspension, which began on April 12 2026, was disclosed to the public on the Nigerian Exchange Group on April 16.
The move is tied to the implementation of the Digital, Electronic, Online, or Non-Traditional Consumer Lending Regulations 2025. These regulations introduce a stricter compliance and licensing framework for companies offering digital credit services.
Impact on subscriber credit access
Xtratime allows subscribers to borrow airtime or data and repay later, a service widely used by customers facing short-term credit constraints. However, the new rules are expected to reshape how such services are structured and delivered across the telecommunications and fintech ecosystem.
MTN Nigeria said the suspension is part of its efforts to align with the evolving regulatory landscape. In the meantime, customers can still purchase airtime and data through other digital channels, including mobile banking applications, USSD services, and agent networks.
Financial outlook and earnings stability
Despite the popularity of the service, the company downplayed any immediate financial impact. It noted that Xtratime does not constitute a significant portion of its overall revenue mix and is therefore unlikely to affect earnings materially in the short term.
The telecommunications company is monitoring customer behaviour and usage patterns during the suspension period. It expects to provide further clarity on any measurable impact in its first-quarter 2026 financial results.
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