If you read our last posts, you already know the gist, MTN paused *303# and Airtel shut down *500#. For days, millions of Nigerians have been stranded, unable to borrow that quick N100 or N500 airtime when salary hasn’t landed or network just decides to mess up.
But here’s the fresh update: airtime borrowing is NOT dead. It has just changed hands.
The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) which is responsible for regulating consumer protection and competition issues regarding ISPs and telecoms in Nigeria, has finally approved 5 new licensed companies to take over airtime and data lending in Nigeria. And yes, this is a big deal because MTN, Airtel, Glo, and 9mobile are no longer running the show directly.
So if you’ve been wondering "how do I borrow airtime now?" we’ve got you. Let’s break it down for everyone.
What Really Happened? (A Quick Recap)
A few days ago, MTN Nigeria suspended its popular XtraTime service. Airtel followed suit. Glo and 9mobile also put their lending services on hold.
Why? The FCCPC introduced the Digital, Electronic, Online or Non-Traditional (DEON) Consumer Lending Regulations, 2025, which kicked off on July 21, 2025. Under these rules, airtime and data borrowing stopped being a "telecom extra" and became a regulated loan service .
Telcos were given time to comply, first 90 days, then extended to January 5, 2026. But many of them didn’t meet the deadline. So instead of continuing illegally, they pressed pause.
The FCCPC made it clear: they never banned airtime borrowing. The telcos simply failed to regularize their operations in time .
And now? The market is open for new players.
Meet the 5 New FCCPC-Approved Airtime & Data Lenders
Here are the five companies officially licensed to lend you airtime and data going forward :
| # | Company Name | What They Do |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Total TIM Nigeria Limited | Digital airtime & data credit services |
| 2 | Rane Interactive Medien CLS Limited | Tech-driven lending & credit platforms |
| 3 | Mode NG Applications Nigeria Limited | App-based mobile credit solutions |
| 4 | Cloud Interactive Associate Limited | Digital financial & credit services |
| 5 | Coverage Broadband Limited | Data lending & internet connectivity credit |
Important: These are NOT telecom networks. They are fintech and tech companies that will handle the lending, while MTN, Airtel, and others simply supply the airtime and data bundles behind the scenes .
So, How Will You Borrow Airtime Now?
Gone are the days of just dialing *303# or *500# and getting instant credit. The new system is more structured and yes, a bit more work.
Here’s what to expect:
1. Download an Official App
You’ll likely need to download the mobile app or visit the website of one of the approved providers above.
2. Register & Verify Your Identity
Unlike before where your SIM was enough, you may need to sign up with your BVN, NIN, or phone number to create an account.
3. Check Your Borrowing Limit
Your limit will be based on your recharge history and usage patterns. New users will probably start small, maybe N50 to N200, before qualifying for bigger amounts.
4. Request Airtime or Data
Once approved, you select how much airtime or data you need.
5. Repay Through Recharge, Wallet, or Auto-Deduction
Repayment may happen through:
- Your next airtime recharge
- In-app wallet payment
- Auto-deduction from your bank or mobile money
What This Means for Regular Nigerians
Let’s be real, for real, this change has both good and not-so-good sides.
The Good News:
- No more hidden charges. You’ll see exactly what you’re paying before you borrow.
- Better consumer protection. The FCCPC is watching these lenders closely.
- More competition. With new players in the game, we might see better rates and faster service over time.
- Fair debt recovery. No more aggressive or shady recovery tactics .
The Not-So-Good News:
- It’s not instant anymore. You need a smartphone, internet, and patience to register.
- Not everyone will qualify immediately. If you don’t have a strong recharge history, you might be locked out at first.
- More steps = more stress. For someone who just wants quick N100 credit to make an urgent call, this feels like overkill.
Will MTN & Airtel Bring Back Their Borrow Services?
Yes, but not yet.
MTN and Airtel are expected to resume airtime and data lending once they fully comply with FCCPC requirements. When they return, expect stricter rules, clearer pricing, and probably a partnership with one of these new licensed lenders instead of running everything themselves .
But for now, if you need to borrow airtime, your best bet is to watch out for when these 5 new providers officially launch their apps and platforms.
How Much Money Are We Even Talking About?
Just so you understand why this is such a big fight, the airtime lending market in Nigeria is worth over N400 billion annually .
MTN alone made N131.62 billion from XtraTime in just the first 9 months of 2025. That’s more than what many banks make from loans. So trust us, this market is not going anywhere. It’s just changing shape .
Bottom Line: What Should You Do Right Now?
- Stop dialing *303# or *500# for now, it won’t work.
- Keep your recharge history active, it may help you qualify faster with the new lenders.
- Watch this space, we’ll update you immediately any of these 5 providers launch their apps.
- Follow Naija Smart Hub, we’re tracking this story closely and will drop the direct links to borrow airtime the moment they go live.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is airtime borrowing banned in Nigeria?
No. The FCCPC says they never banned it. Telcos just failed to comply with the new lending rules .
Can I still borrow airtime from MTN?
Not right now. MTN XtraTime is temporarily suspended until they meet FCCPC requirements .
When will the new providers start working?
They’ve been approved, but full public rollout is expected soon. We’ll update you once their apps are live.
Will I need a smartphone to borrow airtime now?
Most likely yes. The new system is app-based, unlike the old USSD method.
Got questions or tried any of the new platforms already? Drop a comment below, let’s help each other figure this out!
Don’t forget to share this post with that friend who’s still pressing *303# and wondering why MTN is "not lending money again.
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