MTN Nigeria has temporarily suspended its airtime and data credit advance service, widely known as Xtratime.
The telecom operator disclosed the development in a corporate notice filed with the Nigerian Exchange on Thursday.
Xtratime enables subscribers to borrow airtime or data and repay on their next recharge, a service that has become essential for millions of Nigerians, particularly during periods of financial strain.
According to the statement signed by the Company Secretary, Uto Ukpanah, the suspension is aimed at enabling the firm to comply with the Digital, Electronic, Online or Non-Traditional Consumer Lending Regulations, 2025.
The new rules introduce a stricter compliance and licensing framework for all entities offering digital or “non-traditional” credit services to consumers.
“MTN Nigeria Communications PLC hereby notifies the Nigerian Exchange Limited and the investing public that the Company has temporarily suspended its airtime and data credit advance service (Xtratime),” the notice reads.
” This relates to the implementation of processes under the Digital, Electronic, Online or Non-Traditional Consumer Lending Regulations, 2025, which introduced a new compliance and licensing framework for entities providing digital or non-traditional consumer credit services.”
However, MTN assured customers that airtime and data purchases remain available through other digital channels, including banking apps and USSD platforms.
Addressing possible investor concerns, the telecom company said the suspension is not expected to have a significant impact on its earnings.
“Given the scale within the revenue mix, we do not expect the temporary suspension to have a material impact,” the company said.
“We are closely monitoring customer behaviour and usage trends and will provide an update on any quantified impact in our Q1 2026 results.”
The suspension comes as the Federal Government intensifies regulation of the digital lending sector to protect consumers and maintain financial stability within the electronic ecosystem.
The rules, known as the DEON Consumer Lending Regulations, were officially gazetted and came into effect on July 21, 2025.
