Today, the smartphone is not merely a communication tool; it has become an essential part of daily life and is often regarded as a personal accessory Nigerians rarely leave home without.
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‎The truth is that the benefits smartphones far outweigh their challenges. They have revolutionized communication by connecting people across geographical boundaries. From enhancing social interactions to facilitating education, business transactions, entertainment, healthcare services, and access to information, smartphones have transformed the way people live and work. In many respects, they have become indispensable tools in the modern world.
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‎More specifically, smartphones have become trusted companions to millions of Nigerians. Many people can remain indoors for hours or even days without feeling isolated because their phones keep them connected to family, friends, colleagues, and the wider society. Thanks to advances in digital technology, one can communicate instantly with a friend living thousands of kilometres away, regardless of the distance or travel time required to reach such a destination physically. Social media platforms have further expanded human interaction, creating communities that transcend national borders and cultural differences.
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‎However, enjoying these benefits comes at a cost. Internet data is the fuel that powers smartphone connectivity. Without data, many of the features that make smartphones valuable become inaccessible. Unfortunately, many Nigerians spend a significant portion of their income on data subscriptions. In some cases, people prioritize purchasing data over other pressing needs. The situation can best be described as a painful pleasure. Despite economic hardship, rising inflation, and declining purchasing power, many citizens continue to devote scarce resources to staying connected. Some even resort to borrowing money or taking data loans simply to remain active online.
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‎Recent adjustments in telecommunications tariffs have further intensified public concerns about data affordability. While service providers argue that rising operational costs justify price increases, consumers complain that data bundles are exhausted far too quickly. The average Nigerian worker earning the national minimum wage of ₦70,000 per month must carefully budget to meet essential needs such as food, transportation, housing, healthcare, and communication. In such circumstances, frequent expenditure on data places additional pressure on already strained household finances.
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‎As if the burden were not already heavy enough, Punch newspapers captured a recent recommendations by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), which have generated fresh concerns among Nigerians. As part of measures aimed at expanding government revenue, the IMF reportedly suggested the introduction of excise duties on telecommunications services and the extension of certain taxes to fuel products. Although these proposals remain recommendations and not government policy, they have sparked debates about the possible consequences for ordinary citizens. Should such measures eventually be implemented without adequate safeguards, the cost of telecommunications services may rise further, potentially making internet access even less affordable for millions of Nigerians who already struggle with the rising cost of living.
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‎Data consumption itself is driven by several factors. High-definition video streaming, automatic software updates, cloud storage synchronization, social media content, online meetings, and background applications all consume large volumes of data. Yet many users believe that their subscriptions disappear faster than expected, giving rise to widespread frustration and the perception of a “demon” that relentlessly sucks data.
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‎This is where effective regulatory oversight becomes crucial. The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), as the regulator for telecommunications, should ensure that service providers operate fairly and in the best interests of subscribers. At the same time, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), with its broader consumer protection mandate, must continue to safeguard consumers against unfair and exploitative practices within the industry. Greater transparency in data usage reporting can be achieved through stronger collaboration between both agencies, thereby restoring public confidence in Nigeria’s telecommunications sector.
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‎Nigerians deserve affordable access to the digital world. In the twenty-first century, internet access is increasingly viewed not merely as a luxury but as a tool for economic participation, education, innovation, and civic engagement. Governments across the world are investing in digital inclusion programmes because they recognize that connectivity contributes to national development. There is therefore a strong case for policies that make internet access more affordable, especially for students, small business owners, job seekers, and low-income households.
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‎At a time when governments are seeking new sources of revenue, policymakers must balance fiscal objectives with the need to expand digital inclusion. Tax policies that inadvertently increase the cost of connectivity may undermine efforts to build a knowledge-based economy, reduce unemployment, promote entrepreneurship, and bridge the digital divide. The digital economy thrives when citizens can access information and opportunities without excessive financial barriers.
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‎In a country where millions struggle daily to make ends meet, policymakers must be proactive. Affordable data can enhance productivity, support entrepreneurship, promote digital literacy, and strengthen social cohesion. The reality is that connectivity helps Nigerians feel informed, secure, engaged, and socially connected. The demon that sucks data must be confronted through effective regulation, fair pricing, consumer protection measures, and policies that prioritize affordable access to digital services. Only then can every Nigerian enjoy safe, reliable, and affordable access to the opportunities of the digital age.

The post Taming the Data Demon: Why Affordable Internet Matters ‎By Aromaradu Salahudeen, ‎ appeared first on Tech Digest News.

The Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) has called for the urgent resolution of the regulatory dispute disrupting Nigeria’s airtime credit market, cautioning that the standoff could undermine consumer welfare, investor confidence, and the stability of the telecom sector.

ALTON Chairman, Gbenga Adebayo, made the appeal amid mounting concerns over persistent service disruptions despite existing court orders intended to preserve operations.

Adebayo described the situation as more than a routine regulatory disagreement, noting that it reflects deeper issues around institutional coordination and compliance with judicial directives. He urged regulators, telecom operators, and the Federal Government to work together to restore clarity and stability in the market.

“What is happening in the airtime credit space goes beyond a dispute between agencies; it is a reflection of how well the systems that support business confidence are functioning,” he said.

He stressed that while court orders remain valid and operators hold legitimate licences, consumers continue to experience interruptions—highlighting the urgency of resolving the impasse.

ALTON noted that Nigeria’s airtime credit ecosystem—estimated to be worth between N300 billion and N400 billion annually—serves as a vital informal credit system. Millions of Nigerians, particularly small traders, artisans, and low-income earners, depend on airtime advances to manage daily financial needs in the absence of accessible formal credit.

The association warned that prolonged uncertainty could negatively impact not only telecom services but also broader economic activities tied to the sector.

The crisis stems from a jurisdictional conflict between the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) over oversight of airtime credit services and Value Added Service (VAS) providers.

ALTON insists that the NCC, under the Nigerian Communications Act, has clear statutory authority over telecom operations, including VAS providers. It warned that overlapping regulatory claims have created uncertainty and disrupted business activities.

The association added that it had flagged potential risks to the NCC as early as August 2025, cautioning that inconsistencies arising from FCCPC regulations and inter-agency arrangements could destabilise the sector.

ALTON further noted that interim injunctions issued by Federal High Courts in Lagos and Abuja had restrained interference in the operations of licensed VAS providers. However, operators such as Nairtime Nigeria Limited and members of the Wireless Application Service Providers Association of Nigeria (WASPA) are still experiencing disruptions.

The association warned that continued interference despite court rulings raises serious concerns about regulatory coordination and adherence to the rule of law.

In response, the FCCPC denied claims that it had banned airtime borrowing and data advance services. Instead, it attributed the temporary suspension to non-compliance by some service providers.

According to the Commission’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu, operators were required to align their services with Nigerian law under a new regulatory framework introduced in July 2025.

He said a 90-day compliance window was provided to allow operators to regularise their operations, but some providers failed to take advantage of the grace period, particularly within the telecom sector.

The dispute has triggered widespread uncertainty across the telecom ecosystem, with major operators such as Airtel Nigeria and MTN Nigeria Communications Plc previously announcing temporary suspensions of airtime and data credit services in response to regulatory directives.

Industry stakeholders warn that unless swiftly addressed, the standoff could erode confidence in Nigeria’s regulatory environment and disrupt a market that plays a crucial role in supporting everyday financial transactions for millions of Nigerians.

The post ALTON Raises Alarm Over Airtime Credit Dispute, Warns of Threat to N400bn Market appeared first on Tech Digest News.

In a statement issued on Friday by its Director of Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu, the Commission said it did not order the discontinuation of the services, but expects operators to align with existing regulatory requirements.

The clarification follows announcements by MTN Nigeria and Airtel Nigeria that they had temporarily halted their airtime and data credit offerings, citing the implementation of the Digital, Electronic, Online or Non-Traditional Consumer Lending Regulations, 2025.

According to the FCCPC, operators were given a 90-day compliance window when the framework took effect in July 2025 to regularise their services, structures, and operational models.

The Commission said some providers failed to utilise the grace period, continuing to operate under models that had attracted consumer complaints around transparency, charges, and accountability.

It maintained that any disruption should not be attributed to regulation, noting that adequate notice and opportunity for compliance had been provided.

“Any temporary suspension, restriction, or operational change introduced by service providers should therefore be understood as a business or compliance decision by those operators, not a ban imposed by the FCCPC,” the statement said.

The Commission also alleged that certain vested interests are spreading misinformation to undermine regulatory efforts aimed at promoting fair competition and consumer protection.

Under the current framework, all digital lenders—including telecom operators offering airtime or data advances—are required to register with the FCCPC. Operators have until April 2026 to complete the process or face potential sanctions.

The post FCCPC Denies Banning Airtime, Data Lending Services, Blames Operators for Suspension appeared first on Tech Digest News.

The company disclosed the development in a statement issued on Friday by its Director of Corporate Communications and CSR, Femi Adeniran.

The affected services previously allowed eligible prepaid subscribers to borrow airtime or data and repay on their next recharge.

Airtel said the suspension is part of efforts to comply with the Digital, Electronic, Online or Non-Traditional Consumer Lending Regulations, 2025, introduced by the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC).

The new framework establishes licensing and compliance requirements for providers of digital or alternative consumer credit services, bringing telecom-based lending products under regulatory oversight.

Despite the suspension, Airtel assured customers that airtime and data purchases remain fully accessible through existing channels and that service quality will not be affected.

Director of Marketing, Ismail Adeshina, described the move as a necessary step to align with evolving regulatory expectations, emphasizing the company’s commitment to compliance, transparency, and consumer protection.

The development follows a similar decision by MTN Nigeria, which recently suspended its Xtratime service. The parallel actions suggest an industry-wide response to the tightening regulatory environment for digital credit services.

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The commission announced the move in a statement shared on its official X account, noting that the compliance window for affected operators has now closed.

FCCPC Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Tunji Bello, said the enforcement actions are intended to promote transparency, discipline, and consumer confidence in the digital lending sector, while ensuring due process.

The commission has withdrawn the conditional approval status previously granted to lenders that did not complete the regularisation process within the transitional period and has removed them from its public register of approved digital lenders. Bello said the register serves as an important consumer guide and advised Nigerians to exercise caution when dealing with lenders not listed.

The FCCPC has also begun structured engagement with application hosting platforms and payment service providers as part of broader monitoring and enforcement efforts.

Operators that were provisionally designated as eligible under transitional arrangements have been given a new deadline of April 2026 to complete their registration under the Digital Economy Operations Network regulations. Bello said lenders that fail to regularise within this period may face further regulatory measures.

Nigeria strengthened oversight of digital lending in 2025 following widespread complaints of excessive interest rates, harassment, privacy violations, and unethical debt recovery practices. The DEON Regulations, introduced in July 2025, require all digital lenders to register with the FCCPC and comply with consumer protection, data privacy, and responsible lending standards.

As of early January 2026, the FCCPC said 521 digital lenders were registered, with most receiving full approval. More than 100 unregistered loan apps remain on the commission’s watchlist for potential enforcement action.

The Nigeria Data Protection Commission has also disclosed investigations into hundreds of alleged privacy breaches by loan apps, while consumer groups continue to document cases of harassment and cyberbullying linked to unlicensed lenders.

The post FCCPC Cracks Down on Loan Apps That Missed January Deadline appeared first on Tech Digest News.

The FCCPC had directed all digital lenders operating through mobile apps, online platforms or other non-traditional channels to register with the Commission and comply with the Digital, Electronic, Online and Non-Traditional Consumer Lending Regulations, 2025. Enforcement began immediately after the deadline.

According to data from the Commission, 457 of the registered companies have received full approval, while 35 were granted conditional approval. An additional 29 lenders licensed by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) remain subject to FCCPC oversight under the new framework.

Despite the surge in registrations, the Commission said 103 loan apps operated by unregistered entities have been placed on a regulatory watchlist. The FCCPC has warned that lenders operating outside its approval framework face sanctions, including app delisting, fines and possible prosecution.

Industry stakeholders say the growing number of registered lenders highlights both the scale of Nigeria’s digital credit market and the challenge of effective supervision. Lagos-based financial analyst Adewale Adeoye said monitoring more than 500 companies could strain the FCCPC’s capacity, particularly as the regulations also cover lenders operating outside mobile apps.

The President of the Money Lenders Association, Gbemi Adelekan, echoed those concerns but said the Commission has so far been responsive to industry engagement. He noted that customer complaints have declined since the introduction of the new rules, although some borrowers continue to exploit the system by taking loans from multiple platforms without repayment.

The 2025 regulations, which took effect on July 21, 2025, prohibit unethical recovery practices, mandate transparent loan terms, restrict access to users’ contacts and photos, and bar automatic or pre-authorised lending. The FCCPC said the rules are intended to promote fairness, accountability and consumer protection in Nigeria’s digital lending ecosystem.

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The regulation, which took effect on July 21, 2025, aims to clean up Nigeria’s digital lending space after years of complaints about data abuse, unauthorized deductions, and borrower harassment. The Commission also released fresh compliance guidelines, including updated documentation requirements and revised Forms 1 and 3, developed following industry feedback.

FCCPC Executive Vice Chairman, Tunji Bello, said operators have had “ample time” to adjust and warned that enforcement will begin immediately after the deadline. Non-compliant lenders risk being barred from operating, while their partners may also be ordered to cease engagements.

Pending applications will continue to be processed, and operators can access all forms and FAQs via the FCCPC website.

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In a statement issued on Monday and signed by Ondaje Ijagwu, Director of Corporate Affairs, the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the FCCPC, Mr. Tunji Bello, described the judgments as a reflection of the strength of Nigeria’s consumer protection framework and the effectiveness of judicial enforcement under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018.

Mr. Bello praised the courts for delivering “fair outcomes that strengthen consumer confidence and accountability in the marketplace,” adding that the rulings affirm the FCCPA’s provisions empowering consumers to seek redress and compelling service providers to maintain lawful standards of fair service delivery.

He also lauded consumers for pursuing justice through legal channels rather than self-help, noting that the law provides several avenues for grievance redress. “Between March and August 2025, the Commission facilitated recoveries of more than ₦10 billion for consumers across 30 sectors, demonstrating the growing effectiveness of Nigeria’s consumer protection system,” he said.

According to the FCCPC, Justice R. O. Olukolu of the Lagos High Court awarded ₦5 million in damages to a DStv subscriber, Mr. Ben Onuora, for the wrongful disconnection of his active subscription by Multichoice. The court held that the company acted unlawfully by cutting off service despite verified payment and ordered immediate reconnection and an extension of the subscription to cover the period of disconnection.

In the Enugu High Court, Justice C. O. Ajah ruled that Peace Mass Transit’s “no refund after payment” policy was illegal under the FCCPA, ordering the company to pay ₦500,000 in damages to a passenger, Mr. Tochukwu Odo, whose fare was withheld after an uncompleted trip.

Mr. Bello said consistent judicial enforcement complements the Commission’s regulatory efforts and sends a clear message that violations of consumer rights carry real consequences. He urged Nigerians to continue reporting unfair practices through the FCCPC complaint portal, email, or its offices nationwide.

The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to promoting fair markets, safeguarding consumer rights, and ensuring accountability across all sectors.

The post Lagos Court Fines Multichoice ₦5m Over Wrongful DStv Disconnection appeared first on Tech Digest News.

The rise follows the implementation of the Digital, Electronic, Online, or Non-Traditional Consumer Lending Regulations, 2025, which came into effect on July 21. The rules mandate that all digital lenders register with the FCCPC within 90 days or risk fines of up to ₦100 million or 19% of annual turnover, as well as the disqualification of directors for up to five years.

FCCPC data shows that as of May, there were 425 registered lenders — meaning 67 new registrations were recorded in the past four months. Of the 492 approved firms, 434 have received full approval, 36 have conditional approval, and 22 are licensed by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), which exempts them from FCCPC registration but still subjects them to oversight.

Meanwhile, 103 unregistered lenders remain on the Commission’s watchlist pending regulatory action.

FCCPC’s Executive Vice Chairman, Tunji Bello, said the new framework was necessary to address rising cases of unethical lending practices. “Nigerians have endured harassment, data breaches, and defamation from unregulated digital lenders. These regulations draw a clear line that innovation is welcome, but not at the expense of consumer rights,” he said.

The 2025 lending regulations prohibit pre-authorised lending, unethical marketing, and access to customers’ contact lists or photos. They also mandate clear disclosure of loan terms, fair interest rates, and joint registration for partnerships.

The President of the Money Lenders Association (MLA), Gbemi Adelekan, said the new framework would compel lenders to use credit bureaus and promote ethical lending. He added that many new entrants are former bankers seeking to remain active in the financial ecosystem.

Despite ongoing registration drives, the FCCPC said it would continue working with the CBN, Google, and other stakeholders to eliminate harassment and data abuse in Nigeria’s lending market.

The post Registered Loan Apps Surge to 492 as ₦100m Fine Looms appeared first on Tech Digest News.

The refunds stemmed from 9,091 complaints resolved through the commission’s consumer complaints portal, the regulator disclosed on Thursday.

According to the data, the banking sector recorded the highest number of cases with 3,173 complaints, followed by fast-moving consumer goods (1,543), fintech (1,442), and electricity (458). Other flagged sectors included e-commerce (412), telecoms (409), retail and wholesale shopping (329), aviation (243), information technology (131), and road transport and logistics (114).

“These numbers are not just statistics; they tell the story of consumer frustration and the daily challenges Nigerians face in essential services,” FCCPC Chief Executive Officer, Tunji Bello, said.

The commission explained that banking and fintech accounted for the largest financial impact, dominated by loan deduction disputes, unfair charges, and unauthorised debits. It stressed the need for stronger collaboration with the Central Bank of Nigeria to ensure consumer protection in critical financial services.

E-commerce complaints, it added, are also rising rapidly, particularly over failed deliveries, refunds, and counterfeit products, underscoring fragility in the digital economy.

In July, the FCCPC warned that digital lenders could face fines of up to ₦100 million or 1% of turnover for abusive practices. The regulator said it would intensify monitoring, enforcement, and collaboration with sector regulators to protect consumers.

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