Subscribers decry disruption of airtime borrowing service
Telecom subscribers in Nigeria have expressed concern over the disruption of airtime borrowing services accessed through the *303# short code. The service, widely used by customers of major telecom operators,
Telecom subscribers in Nigeria have expressed concern over the disruption of airtime borrowing services accessed through the *303# short code.
The service, widely used by customers of major telecom operators, has been unavailable for several days, prompting reactions on social media, particularly among users who rely on it for urgent communication needs.
Findings indicate that the development followed regulatory directives issued by the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), which directed operators to suspend services linked to the Digital, Electronic, Online, or Non-Traditional Consumer Lending Regulations (DEON) 2025.
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In a letter dated April 2, 2026, the Commission instructed telecom operators to halt such services pending compliance with provisions requiring engagement only with FCCPC-approved service providers. It also requested written confirmation of compliance within a stipulated timeframe.
Some subscribers who spoke on the development noted that the airtime borrowing option had been a convenient tool for managing communication needs, especially in situations where immediate access to airtime was limited.
A Lagos-based banker, Segun Olabode, said the service had provided flexibility in managing personal finances, allowing users to meet urgent communication needs while planning other expenses.
Similarly, a trader in Port Harcourt, Alice Obiateru, said the temporary unavailability of the service had created inconvenience, noting that it had been a reliable option for staying connected during emergencies.
She said in Pidgin, “Shey na curse Dey make this thing happen to us ni? Why be say we go see better thing na how to scatter am we go Dey look for?
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“I no go lie to you dem strangulation of life-saving plan be that because na wetin I Dey use be that and I no say dem go comot their money whenever I recharge. It is so easy.”
A Bureau De Change operator in Abuja, Nasiru Mohammed, highlighted the importance of seamless communication for business operations, noting that delays in accessing airtime can disrupt daily activities.
He explained that situations where airtime purchases are not immediately delivered can pose challenges, especially when urgent communication is required.
Mohammed observed that the airtime borrowing option has provided a convenient alternative in such instances, helping users stay connected when needed.
Industry stakeholders have also called for greater regulatory clarity and coordination among relevant authorities to ensure stability in service delivery and minimise disruptions.
Meanwhile, the Wireless Application Service Providers Association of Nigeria obtained an interim order from the Federal High Court in Lagos concerning the enforcement of the Digital, Electronic, Online, or Non-Traditional Consumer Lending Regulations (DEON) 2025.
The order was said to have restrained the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) from implementing the regulations pending the determination of the substantive suit.
