The Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) has called on the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to develop a comprehensive regulatory framework for airtime and data credit services.
The appeal reflects the rapid growth of digital credit services in Nigeria, where millions of mobile subscribers rely on borrowed airtime and data to stay connected. As these services continue to expand, telecom operators believe that clear regulations are necessary to protect consumers, ensure transparency, and create a fair operating environment for all stakeholders.
According to ALTON, a well-defined framework would establish clear rules on how airtime and data credit products are offered, including consumer rights, repayment processes, dispute resolution mechanisms, and service provider responsibilities. The association argues that such guidelines would strengthen public confidence while reducing misunderstandings between operators and subscribers.
Industry experts also note that effective regulation could encourage innovation by providing telecom companies with a stable legal environment to develop new digital financial services. At the same time, it would help regulatory agencies monitor compliance and prevent unfair practices that could harm consumers.
The FCCPC and NCC are expected to play key roles in shaping any future policy, balancing consumer protection with the need to promote investment and growth in Nigeria’s telecommunications sector.
If adopted, the proposed framework could mark a significant step toward improving the country’s digital ecosystem, ensuring that airtime and data credit services remain accessible, transparent, and beneficial to millions of Nigerians who depend on them every day.
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