The Wireless Application Service Providers Association of Nigeria (WASPAN) has cautioned that over 40 million low-income subscribers could face interruptions to airtime lending services. This risk arises if the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) enforces its 2025 Digital, Electronic, Online or Non-Traditional Consumer Lending (DEON) Regulations while a legal appeal is still pending.
WASPAN Chairman Ayo Stuffman submitted an affidavit to support an injunction against a July 20 Federal High Court ruling that favored the FCCPC’s regulatory authority. The central issue in Suit No. FHC/L/CS/760/2026 remains whether the FCCPC holds jurisdiction over telecommunications-based lending or if those powers belong solely to the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).
Following the lower court’s decision, the FCCPC announced that the DEON Regulations were immediately enforceable. WASPAN argues that proceeding with enforcement now would create regulatory instability and potentially force service providers into non-compliance. Their legal counsel, Chukwudi Enebeli (SAN), emphasized that moving forward before the appellate process is complete would render the appeal ineffective.
The airtime credit market, valued annually between ₦300 billion and ₦400 billion, is essential for millions in the informal economy. ALTON, the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria, supports the view that these services are critical telecommunications utilities rather than standard financial products. While WASPAN pushes for an injunction to maintain the current status quo, FCCPC spokesperson Ondaje Ijagwu stated that the commission remains committed to exercising its statutory mandate following the court’s validation of the regulations.