Airtel Nigeria has announced the temporary suspension of its airtime and data credit services, which previously allowed eligible prepaid customers to borrow airtime or data and repay on their next recharge.

In a statement on Friday, the Director, Corporate Communications & CSR Airtel Nigeria, Femi Adeniran, said the decision is part of ongoing adjustments to align its operations with evolving regulatory and operational requirements in Nigeria’s telecommunications sector.

Despite the suspension, Airtel Nigeria assured customers that they will continue to have uninterrupted access to standard airtime and data purchases through existing channels.

According to the company, the pause in the credit service is not expected to affect overall service quality or network performance across the country.

Commenting on the development, Airtel Nigeria’s Director of Marketing, Ismail Adeshina, described the move as necessary and responsible.

“This is a necessary and responsible step as we align our operations with evolving requirements. Airtel Nigeria remains committed to the highest standards of compliance, transparency, and consumer protection, while continuing to innovate responsibly within Nigeria’s digital ecosystem,” he said.

The telecom operator added that updates on the status of the suspended service will be communicated to customers in due course.

The development comes amid growing regulatory scrutiny of digital lending and credit-based services in Nigeria’s telecom sector, as operators adjust to new compliance expectations. (PUNCH)