FCCPC Archives - Tech | Business | Economy https://techeconomy.ng/tag/fccpc/ Tech | Business | Economy Wed, 08 Jul 2026 08:12:10 +0000 en-GB hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.0.1 https://techeconomy.ng/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/cropped-techeconomy-logo-32x32.jpeg FCCPC Archives - Tech | Business | Economy https://techeconomy.ng/tag/fccpc/ 32 32 NPO Hails Tinubu’s Directive to FCCPC to Investigate Big Tech, AI Platforms over Content Exploitation https://techeconomy.ng/npo-hails-tinubus-directive-to-fccpc-to-investigate-big-tech-ai-platforms-over-content-exploitation/ https://techeconomy.ng/npo-hails-tinubus-directive-to-fccpc-to-investigate-big-tech-ai-platforms-over-content-exploitation/#respond Wed, 08 Jul 2026 08:12:10 +0000 https://techeconomy.ng/?p=185034 The Nigerian Press Organisation has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for directing the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission to launch a formal investigation into major global technology companies and generative artificial intelligence platforms operating in Nigeria over allegations of anti-competitive conduct and the unlawful exploitation of journalistic content. The NPO said the directive follows […]

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The Nigerian Press Organisation has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for directing the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission to launch a formal investigation into major global technology companies and generative artificial intelligence platforms operating in Nigeria over allegations of anti-competitive conduct and the unlawful exploitation of journalistic content.

Meta, Google, X Face Fresh FCCPC Probe -Tinubu
President Bola Tinubu 

The NPO said the directive follows a joint petition submitted to the Federal Government by its constituent bodies: the Newspaper Proprietors’ Association of Nigeria (NPAN), the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), the Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria (BON), and the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP).

In a statement signed by Mr. Frank Aigbogun, deputy president, NPAN/NPO, the organisation said:

“When a delegation of the NPO met President Tinubu in March to formally complain about the existential threat posed to the media by Big Tech and AI companies operating in Nigeria, we did so with very serious concern.

“We are therefore pleased that the government has commenced this investigation. Beyond the clear and present danger posed by Big Tech’s anti-competitive behaviour, their lack of transparency and accountability also carries very serious consequences for journalism as a public-interest good,” Aigbogun said.

According to the statement, dominant digital platforms, including Meta, Alphabet, X (formerly Twitter) and various generative AI companies, have for years undermined fair competition and the commercial viability of Nigerian media organisations by exploiting original journalistic content without equitable compensation.

“This, for us, is a first major step in the journey to finally hold tech giants accountable, especially in light of the progress recorded in other parts of the world, including South Africa,” the statement said.

The NPO welcomed the assurance of Mr Tunji Bello, FCCPC chief executive officer, given following a request from the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mr Idris Mohammed, that the inquiry would be conducted independently, transparently and on an evidence-based footing.

The organisation said it and its constituent bodies stand ready to cooperate fully with the FCCPC during the inquiry, providing all necessary evidence toward what it described as a balanced digital economy that respects Nigerian sovereignty and the rights of Nigerian publishers.

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FG Suspends New Digital Regulations as It Works on Unified Policy https://techeconomy.ng/fg-suspends-new-digital-regulations-unified-policy-framework/ https://techeconomy.ng/fg-suspends-new-digital-regulations-unified-policy-framework/#respond Tue, 07 Jul 2026 12:09:13 +0000 https://techeconomy.ng/?p=184993 According to the minister, the rapid growth of Nigeria's digital economy has created areas where the responsibilities of regulators now overlap.

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The Federal Government (FG) has directed regulators in Nigeria’s digital economy to suspend the implementation of new regulations affecting internet platforms and online intermediaries while it develops a single national policy and governance framework for the sector.

The Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, announced the decision in a statement issued on Tuesday after a high-level meeting with the leadership of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC).

According to the minister, the rapid growth of Nigeria’s digital economy has created areas where the responsibilities of regulators now overlap.

He said that although each agency has a clearly defined legal mandate, issues involving telecommunications, digital platforms, artificial intelligence, online safety and data governance now require a coordinated government approach.

Tijani said better coordination would provide legal certainty, encourage investment, support innovation, strengthen consumer confidence and improve Nigeria’s competitiveness as Africa’s leading digital economy.

He directed that the current regulatory position should remain in place while the harmonisation exercise continues.

The existing regulatory status quo shall be maintained with respect to matters relating to Internet platforms, online intermediaries and other cross-cutting digital economy issues currently undergoing inter-agency policy harmonisation under the Ministry’s coordination.

“Relevant agencies are to defer the implementation or enforcement of any recently issued regulation, code, guideline, framework, directive or administrative requirement relating to internet platforms, online intermediaries or other cross-cutting digital economy matters.”

The minister clarified that the directive does not remove the statutory powers of the agencies. He said all existing regulations and directives that fall within their legal mandates will remain in force, provided they are consistent with the ministry’s policy direction.

As part of the exercise, the ministry will establish a Joint Technical Coordination Committee made up of representatives from the NCC, NITDA and NDPC.

The committee, led by the Office of the Minister, will coordinate technical discussions, consult industry players, civil society groups, academic institutions and other stakeholders, and prepare recommendations for a harmonised national policy and governance framework.

Tijani said the exercise is not intended to reduce the responsibilities of any regulator but to ensure government adopts a consistent approach to cross-cutting digital economy issues.

He added that the proposed framework will clearly define the responsibilities of each institution, reduce regulatory overlap, remove compliance uncertainty, strengthen investor confidence and promote innovation.

According to him, the framework will also support Nigeria’s ambition to become Africa’s leading digital economy and a globally competitive destination for digital investment.

The announcement came less than 24 hours after the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) disclosed that President Bola Tinubu had authorised an investigation into global technology companies and generative artificial intelligence platforms operating in Nigeria over allegations of anti-competitive practices and the use of news content belonging to Nigerian media organisations.

The FCCPC said the investigation will cover companies including Meta, Alphabet, Google’s parent company, X, formerly Twitter, and other generative AI platforms operating in the country.

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JUST IN: Meta, Google, X Face Fresh FCCPC Probe as Tinubu Orders Investigation https://techeconomy.ng/meta-google-x-face-fresh-fccpc-probe-as-tinubu-orders-investigation/ https://techeconomy.ng/meta-google-x-face-fresh-fccpc-probe-as-tinubu-orders-investigation/#respond Mon, 06 Jul 2026 16:41:44 +0000 https://techeconomy.ng/?p=184905 Big technology companies have come under the radar of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, following allegations of anti-competitive practices, unlawful exploitation of news content, and other potentially unfair market conduct. Also to be investigated are Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) platforms operating in Nigeria. This is sequel to a directive from President Bola Ahmed […]

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Big technology companies have come under the radar of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, following allegations of anti-competitive practices, unlawful exploitation of news content, and other potentially unfair market conduct.

Also to be investigated are Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) platforms operating in Nigeria.

This is sequel to a directive from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to FCCPC to look into a joint petition submitted to the Presidency by the Nigerian Press Organisation (NPO).

The NPO comprises the Newspaper Proprietors’ Association of Nigeria (NPAN), the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), the Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria (BON), and the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP).

The Federal Government’s position was communicated to the FCCPC in a letter signed by Alhaji Mohammed Idris, the minister of Information and National Orientation.

According to a press statement signed by Ondaje Ijagwu, director, Corporate Affairs at the FCCPC, the investigation promises to open a new vista in Nigeria’s media history. In recent years, concerns have been raised by the Nigerian media industry over the growing impact of certain digital platforms on the sustainability of the country’s news ecosystem.

Specifically, the NPO is increasingly uncomfortable with major technology companies including Meta, Alphabet, X (formerly Twitter), and certain Generative AI platforms, citing practices capable of undermining fair competition, the commercial viability of Nigerian media organisations, and the legitimate rights of content creators and publishers.

Reacting, Mr. Tunji Bello, the executive vice chairman and chief executive officer of the FCCPC, reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to conducting an independent, transparent, and evidence-based investigation.

“We recognise the strategic importance of the media to Nigeria’s democracy and the equally significant role of technology in driving innovation and economic growth. Our responsibility is to objectively determine the facts and ensure that competition within the digital ecosystem remains fair, transparent, and consistent with Nigerian law,” said Bello.

Clarifying the issues, Bello added that,

“This inquiry is not directed at any entity by presumption of wrongdoing. Rather, it is an opportunity to carefully examine the facts, hear from all affected parties, and determine whether any conduct has resulted in anti-competitive outcomes or unfair business practices. Every party will be accorded a fair opportunity to present relevant information before any conclusions are reached.”

In specific terms, FCCPC will determine whether the practices in question constitute a breach of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018 or any other applicable law.

In the past, FCCPC had investigated META and in 2025 won a landmark case against the tech giant for violations of FCCPA including data breach, for which the tech giant was fined $220m. Meta has however appealed the fine.

Under the new investigation, areas of interest include allegations of market dominance and potential anti-competitive conduct. Second is the allegation of unauthorised extraction, scraping, ingestion, or commercial utilisation of copyrighted news articles, broadcast materials, and other original journalistic content for the development and training of Generative Artificial Intelligence models.

Third is the concern regarding the lack of equitable commercial engagement between global tech companies and Nigerian news publishers. Central to this is the allegation that affected media organisations have been denied meaningful opportunities to negotiate fair compensation or appropriate commercial arrangements for the use of their journalistic content.

Incidentally, following similar agitation by media organisations in South Africa and investigation by the South African Competition Commission, it was finally negotiated that Google compensate South African news media by R688 million ($40 million) annually for three to five years.

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Sycamore Clarifies CBN Licence Revocation, Says Customer Funds, Core Business Remain Safe https://techeconomy.ng/sycamore-clarifies-cbn-licence-revocation-customer-funds-safe/ https://techeconomy.ng/sycamore-clarifies-cbn-licence-revocation-customer-funds-safe/#respond Thu, 02 Jul 2026 08:02:06 +0000 https://techeconomy.ng/?p=184691 Sycamore has explained that the CBN's revocation of Sycamore MFB's operating licence applies only to a recently acquired microfinance bank and does not affect its lending and investment businesses.

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Sycamore has reassured customers that its lending and investment businesses remain fully operational after the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) revoked the operating licence of Sycamore Microfinance Bank.

The fintech explained that the affected entity was a recently acquired microfinance bank that had not become part of its core operations.

In an interview with Techeconomy, Babatunde Akin-Moses, the company’s co-founder and CEO, said the licence revocation relates only to the microfinance banking entity it acquired in Kano State as part of plans to expand into deposit-taking and payment services.

The licence revocation relates to a microfinance banking entity that Sycamore had recently acquired in Kano State as part of our long-term strategy to expand into deposit-taking and payments,” Akin-Moses said.

He added that he would not comment on the regulator’s findings because the matter is still before the appropriate authorities.

As the matter involves an ongoing regulatory process, we won’t be able to comment on the specific findings at this stage. We remain respectful of the CBN’s regulatory role and are engaging through the appropriate channels.”

The clarification comes after the CBN announced the revocation of operating licences of 46 microfinance banks across the country, including Sycamore MFB, over failure to meet regulatory requirements.

Addressing concerns about the relationship between the revoked microfinance bank and the Sycamore business, Akin-Moses said the two should not be treated as the same operation.

According to him, the microfinance bank was “a separate licensed entity” that the company had recently acquired and was still integrating into the group.

Sycamore MFB was a separate licensed entity that we had recently acquired and were in the process of integrating into the Sycamore Group.”

Akin-Moses said the company’s consumer lending business operates under approval from the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), while Sycamore Investment and Asset Management Limited (SIAML) remains licensed by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

The licence revocation does not affect our core businesses. Our consumer lending operations continue to operate under FCCPC approval, while Sycamore Investment and Asset Management Limited (SIAML) continues to operate under its SEC licence. Customers can continue to save, invest, borrow, and transact through our existing platforms as usual.”

The CEO also sought to calm concerns from users who may be worried about the safety of their money following the CBN’s move.

There is no impact on customers using Sycamore’s existing lending and investment services. Our platform remains fully operational.”

“All customer funds and investments held through our existing businesses remain safe and fully accessible. Customers can continue to use our services as they normally would,” he added.

Clarifying if the company plans to challenge the revocation, Akin-Moses said discussions with regulators are ongoing but declined to give further details.

We are reviewing the development and engaging through the appropriate regulatory channels. At this stage, we believe it is best to allow those processes to run their course and will not be commenting further on them.”

Akin-Moses further noted that customers should expect normal service while the regulatory process continues.

Our message to customers is straightforward: Sycamore remains fully operational, and all customer funds and investments remain safe and secure.

“We remain committed to the highest standards of governance, transparency, and regulatory compliance. Customers should expect business as usual from Sycamore, and we will continue to provide updates whenever there are material developments.”

The CBN revoked the licences of the microfinance banks with immediate effect, citing provisions of the Banks and Other Financial Institutions Act, 2020.

The regulator said the affected institutions did not meet regulatory requirements, including conditions tied to their licences.

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MTN to Restore Xtratime Airtime Lending Service After FCCPC Lifts Enforcement https://techeconomy.ng/mtn-restore-xtratime-airtime-lending-fccpc-deon/ https://techeconomy.ng/mtn-restore-xtratime-airtime-lending-fccpc-deon/#respond Fri, 29 May 2026 11:57:33 +0000 https://techeconomy.ng/?p=182411 MTN Nigeria will restore its Xtratime airtime lending service after regulators suspended enforcement of new digital lending rules that had forced telecom operators to halt operations earlier in 2026.

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MTN Nigeria is set to bring back its Xtratime airtime lending service after regulators paused enforcement of new regulations that had forced telecom operators to suspend the product earlier in the year.

Airtel and Globacom have already restored similar services. MTN now follows after the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) suspended enforcement of the Digital, Electronic, Online or Non-Traditional Consumer Lending (DEON) Regulations 2025.

The regulator introduced the policy in 2025 and classified airtime and data lending as consumer credit. This required telecom operators and their partners to obtain licences and meet compliance conditions.

In April 2026, MTN, Airtel, Globacom and 9mobile suspended airtime lending services to comply with the directive.

A court order issued on April 15, 2026, followed a case filed by the Wireless Application Service Providers Association of Nigeria (WASPAN), which represents value-added service providers. The order triggered further regulatory challenges and expanded the disruption.

By one estimate, the suspension affected about 40 million subscribers across Nigeria. Many of them depend on airtime borrowing for quick communication, small business operations and emergency use. The service sits within a market valued at about ₦400 billion.

MTN had initially taken a careful position. The company told investors it would not restart Xtratime unless the regulations were struck down or it received a clear directive to resume.

That position has now changed, after the FCCPC paused enforcement on May 22, 2026, MTN confirmed it will reinstate the service.

A company insider said: “The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has suspended the enforcement of DEON. To that extent, we will reinstate the service,”

Competition also had an impact. Airtel and Globacom moved earlier to restore their own airtime lending platforms once the enforcement pause began, increasing pressure on MTN to follow.

MTN Xtratime lending allows customers to borrow airtime or data and repay on later top-ups. The service generates fees for the company and supports overall network usage.

During an earnings call, MTN Nigeria chief executive Karl Toriola said the impact on usage was short-lived. He said:

There was a short-term impact on consumption patterns, which lasted only a few days,” MTN Nigeria chief executive officer Karl Toriola said during the earnings call. “However, as time progressed, customers adapted. They either shifted to self-funded usage or found alternative ways to manage short-term needs.”

The company estimates that Xtratime fees contribute about 3% of total revenue. Airtime and data linked to the service account for roughly 20% of overall airtime distribution.

Tobechukwu Okigbo, MTN Nigeria’s chief corporate services and sustainability officer, also noted earlier concerns around resumption conditions.

He said: “First, we would require either a court ruling that sets aside the regulations empowering the FCCPC to license, which has not happened, or a clear directive instructing us to reinstate the service.”

MTN Nigeria recorded ₦5.2 trillion in revenue in 2025, equal to about $3.77 billion. It expects this to rise to ₦6.24 trillion, or about $4.52 billion, in 2026.

Despite the disruption, MTN maintains that airtime consumption patterns are still stable. The company argues that customers mainly changed how they pay, not how much they use services.

I note that MTN does not expect Xtratime’s absence to derail performance targets,” an executive said in internal discussions around the update.

In its first quarter 2026 report, MTN said it is still onboarding approved partners and expects full restoration once the process is completed.

The company now treats the service as operationally important but not critical to overall performance.

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Regulatory Standoff Halts: Airtel and Glo Subscribers Can Borrow Airtime Again https://techeconomy.ng/airtel-and-glo-subscribers-can-borrow-airtime-again/ https://techeconomy.ng/airtel-and-glo-subscribers-can-borrow-airtime-again/#respond Fri, 29 May 2026 08:55:10 +0000 https://techeconomy.ng/?p=182396 A major regulatory friction point in Nigeria’s digital economy has temporarily eased as Airtel Nigeria and Globacom (Glo) officially restored their emergency airtime and data lending services. The resumption follows a six-week suspension that frozen a critical mobile value-added service (VAS) market used by millions of subscribers. The service restoration comes after the Federal Competition […]

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A major regulatory friction point in Nigeria’s digital economy has temporarily eased as Airtel Nigeria and Globacom (Glo) officially restored their emergency airtime and data lending services.

The resumption follows a six-week suspension that frozen a critical mobile value-added service (VAS) market used by millions of subscribers.

The service restoration comes after the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) issued a public notice suspending the enforcement of its controversial Digital, Electronic, Online, or Non-Traditional (DEON) Consumer Lending Regulations 2025.

This regulatory backtrack was triggered by an interim injunction granted by the Federal High Court in Lagos, following a legal challenge spearheaded by the Wireless Application Service Providers Association of Nigeria (WASPAN).

The Roots of the Dispute: Overlapping Jurisdictions

The crisis began when the FCCPC expanded the interpretation of its DEON framework to classify deferred-payment telecom services, such as Globacom’s “Borrow Me Credit” and Airtel’s emergency credit advances, as conventional digital loans.

Under these rules, telecom operators and their technical partner platforms were classified as digital money lenders.

This expansion subjected them to aggressive credit-checking burdens, data privacy disclosures, and steep non-compliance penalties of up to ₦100 million or 1% of annual turnover.

The move faced immediate pushback from the telecom ecosystem. Telcos and value-added service providers argued that emergency airtime is an advance on services, not a cash loan product. They maintained that the sector is already strictly regulated under the statutory mandate of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).

In April, Dr. Aminu Maida, NCC executive vice chairman clarified the regulator’s stance, noting that airtime advances fall explicitly under telecom value-added services governed by the Nigerian Communications Act, rather than commercial consumer lending frameworks.

Current Network Status and Access Codes

While Airtel and Glo have fully reactivated their systems, market checks indicate that MTN Nigeria has not yet restored its airtime lending service, though industry insiders expect a resumption shortly as regulatory clearance is finalized.

Subscribers on the active networks can now access emergency credit lines using the harmonized USSD shortcodes previously mandated by the NCC:

  • Airtel Nigeria: Dial *303#
  • Globacom (Glo): Dial *303#

Why This Matters for the Digital Economy

The six-week freeze highlighted the growing challenge of regulatory overlap in Nigeria’s fast-evolving digital landscape, where fintech, telecommunications, and consumer commerce increasingly intersect.

For value-added service providers, the freeze threatened a multi-billion naira revenue stream. For the broader economy, the sudden withdrawal of micro-credit communication buffers directly impacted low-income subscribers relying on short-term credit lines during cash-flow shortages.

While the FCCPC has indicated its intent to legally challenge the interim court order, the current enforcement halt provides needed operational stability for telecom operators and immediate relief for millions of mobile consumers.

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Court Strikes Out WISPAN’s Contempt Proceedings Against FCCPC https://techeconomy.ng/court-strikes-out-wispans-contempt-proceedings-against-fccpc/ https://techeconomy.ng/court-strikes-out-wispans-contempt-proceedings-against-fccpc/#respond Wed, 27 May 2026 05:35:14 +0000 https://techeconomy.ng/?p=182163 The Federal High Court, Lagos, has struck out contempt proceedings initiated by Wireless Application Service Providers Association of Nigeria (WISPAN) against Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC). This was after parties informed the court that issues surrounding the committal proceedings had been resolved. Justice Ambrose Lewis-Allagoa subsequently struck out the contempt application after counsel […]

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The Federal High Court, Lagos, has struck out contempt proceedings initiated by Wireless Application Service Providers Association of Nigeria (WISPAN) against Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC).

This was after parties informed the court that issues surrounding the committal proceedings had been resolved.

Justice Ambrose Lewis-Allagoa subsequently struck out the contempt application after counsel informed the court that issues surrounding the committal proceedings had been amicably resolved.

The suit, marked FHC/L/CS/760/2026, centred on WASPAN’s challenge to FCCPC’s Digital, Electronic, Online and Non-Traditional Consumer Lending Guidelines, 2025 (DEON Regulations), which the association alleged unlawfully extended the commission’s regulatory powers into sectors already supervised by other agencies.

At the proceedings on Tuesday, Kemi Pinheiro, SAN, led the plaintiff’s team alongside Chukwudi Enebeli, SAN, while Olufunke Aboyade, SAN, represented FCCPC.

At the commencement of proceedings, counsel to FCCPC informed the court that discussions between the parties had resolved issues relating to the contempt proceedings, thereby paving the way for the hearing of substantive applications in the suit.

Following the development, Pinheiro formally withdrew the Form 49 contempt proceedings earlier filed by WASPAN, prompting the court to strike out the application.

The matter then proceeded to the hearing of FCCPC’s preliminary objection challenging the competence of the suit.

Aboyade argued that DEON Regulations had been in operation since July 2025 and questioned why the plaintiff waited until now to challenge them.

She maintained that the regulations were introduced to protect consumers and further contended that WASPAN failed to comply with statutory pre-action notice requirements before instituting the suit.

Pinheiro, however, opposed the objection, arguing that FCCPC relied on factual allegations unsupported by affidavit evidence.

According to him, issues relating to delay and procedural non-compliance cannot validly be raised through mere written submissions without evidential backing.

He further argued that constitutional provisions guaranteeing citizens access to the courts overrode technical objections relating to pre-action notices, particularly where a litigant alleged imminent regulatory harm.

Pinheiro also accused FCCPC of adopting inconsistent legal positions by challenging the court’s jurisdiction while simultaneously seeking judicial reliefs from the same court.

On the substantive issues, WASPAN urged the court to nullify portions of DEON Regulations, contending that FCCPC exceeded its statutory mandate.

The association stated that the commission was attempting to exercise regulatory powers already vested in Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) under existing laws.

WASPAN maintained that subsidiary legislation could not stand where it conflicted with Acts of the National Assembly.

In response, FCCPC defended its powers, insisting that its enabling law grants the commission authority across sectors where consumer protection issues arise.

Aboyade also argued that defendants in originating summons proceedings were entitled to formulate independent legal issues in defence of claims brought before the court.

During final submissions, the plaintiff challenged documentary exhibits tendered by FCCPC, stating that the materials lack evidential credibility and fail to establish any direct nexus between alleged activities of “loan sharks” and members of WASPAN.

After hearing arguments from both sides, Allagoa adjourned the matter until July 20, 2026, for judgement.

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FCCPC Issues Warning Over Merger Compliance, Threatens Penalties for Unapproved Deals https://techeconomy.ng/fccpc-warns-firms-mergers-and-acquisitions-nigeria/ https://techeconomy.ng/fccpc-warns-firms-mergers-and-acquisitions-nigeria/#respond Wed, 22 Apr 2026 08:48:33 +0000 https://techeconomy.ng/?p=180300 According to the FCCPC, the law gives it power to review transactions, approve them with or without conditions, or block them where necessary

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The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has warned companies, lawyers and deal advisers to comply with mergers and acquisitions regulations before completing qualifying transactions in Nigeria.

The commission said businesses must seek approval where a merger or acquisition meets the thresholds set under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018.

According to the FCCPC, the law gives it power to review transactions, approve them with or without conditions, or block them where necessary.

It said the requirement covers several forms of business combinations. These include share purchases, asset acquisitions, joint ventures and other arrangements that fall within the legal definition of a merger.

The commission explained that prior notification allows it to examine whether a proposed deal could weaken competition in any market in Nigeria or create public interest issues.

It added that the process also helps regulators track market developments and understand how competition is changing across industries.

The FCCPC urged businesses and their advisers to approach the commission early if a planned transaction may require notification.

It said early engagement, including pre-notification consultations where needed, can give parties more certainty, speed up reviews and help them meet legal obligations.

The regulator also issued a warning on non-compliance.

The FCCPC emphasises that failure to notify a notifiable transaction constitutes a contravention of the FCCPA and shall attract stiff penalties and other enforcement actions.”

It advised parties to take all necessary steps before implementing transactions that fall within its jurisdiction.

The commission asked stakeholders seeking clarification on the mergers and acquisitions regulations to contact the FCCPC or visit its website.

It added that it is fully committed to promoting fair competition, protecting consumers and supporting a transparent business environment in Nigeria.

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FCCPC Denies Ban on Airtime Borrowing after MTN, Airtel Suspensions https://techeconomy.ng/fccpc-denies-ban-on-airtime-borrowing-after-mtn-airtel-suspensions/ https://techeconomy.ng/fccpc-denies-ban-on-airtime-borrowing-after-mtn-airtel-suspensions/#respond Fri, 17 Apr 2026 20:59:27 +0000 https://techeconomy.ng/?p=180049 Confusion over Nigeria’s popular airtime borrowing and data advance services deepened on Friday after the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) denied claims that it had suspended the offerings, insisting that recent disruptions by telecom operators were not the result of any regulatory ban. The clarification comes days after major operators, including MTN Nigeria […]

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Confusion over Nigeria’s popular airtime borrowing and data advance services deepened on Friday after the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) denied claims that it had suspended the offerings, insisting that recent disruptions by telecom operators were not the result of any regulatory ban.

The clarification comes days after major operators, including MTN Nigeria and Airtel Nigeria, announced pauses or changes to their airtime and data credit services, sparking concern among millions of subscribers who rely on the products for emergency connectivity.

MTN had earlier halted its airtime borrowing service, citing compliance with new FCCPC rules, while Airtel also suspended airtime and data credit offerings, raising speculation that regulators had outlawed the services altogether.

However, in a statement issued Friday, FCCPC said such claims were false.

According to Ondaje Ijagwu, Director of Corporate Affairs at the Commission, the agency did not prohibit airtime lending, data advance, or other lawful telecom value-added services.

“No directive was issued by the Commission stopping consumers from accessing legitimate services,” he said.

What Triggered the Confusion

At the centre of the controversy are FCCPC’s Consumer Lending Regulations under the Digital Economy and Online Network (DEON) framework introduced in July 2025.

The regulations were designed to tackle growing complaints from consumers over digital credit products, including opaque charges, unexplained deductions, aggressive debt recovery tactics, poor disclosure standards and weak accountability by service providers

FCCPC said the reforms were intended to make lending products fairer and more transparent, not to shut them down.

Why MTN and Airtel Paused Services

Industry insiders say telecom operators’ borrow-and-pay-later services had grown rapidly in Nigeria, becoming an essential stopgap for users facing low balances or urgent data needs.

Products such as MTN XtraTime, MTN XtraByte, and similar Airtel offerings allow customers to access airtime or data on credit and repay on their next recharge.

But FCCPC disclosed that some operators entered into exclusive partnerships and other arrangements considered non-compliant with the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act 2018.

The Commission said operators were initially granted a 90-day compliance period, later extended to January 5, 2026, to regularise their models. Several players, it said, failed to meet the deadline.

“Any recent service suspensions or changes should be seen as business or compliance decisions by operators, not a regulatory ban,” the Commission stated.

A Bigger Battle over Competition

Beyond the immediate service disruption lies a broader regulatory battle over market access and competition in Nigeria’s digital lending ecosystem.

FCCPC alleged that some “vested interests” and foreign collaborators were spreading misinformation to frustrate reforms aimed at opening the market to more players and strengthening local participation.

Analysts say the move signals a new phase in telecom-fintech convergence, where products once treated as telecom perks are increasingly being viewed as consumer credit services subject to stricter regulation.

That means services like airtime borrowing may now require clearer pricing, stronger consumer consent, and fairer partnership structures.

What it Means for Subscribers

For millions of Nigerians who depend on borrowed airtime and data, especially in a period of rising living costs, the disruptions have created uncertainty.

If operators complete compliance adjustments, services could return in more transparent forms. But if disagreements persist, consumers may face delays or redesigned products with tighter lending terms.

FCCPC urged Nigerians to ignore misleading reports and said it remains committed to protecting consumers while enabling responsible innovation.

“The Commission remains committed to ensuring a fair, transparent, and competitive digital financial ecosystem,” it added.

The episode highlights a changing reality in Nigeria’s telecom sector: airtime credit is no longer just a convenience feature, it is now part of the country’s evolving digital lending economy, where consumer rights, competition policy, and telecom innovation increasingly intersect.

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NIVEA ₦3bn Promo Enters Week 7 as 70 Nigerians Win ₦1m Each https://techeconomy.ng/nivea-3bn-promo-week-7-70-win-1m-450000-rewards/ https://techeconomy.ng/nivea-3bn-promo-week-7-70-win-1m-450000-rewards/#respond Tue, 24 Feb 2026 13:51:34 +0000 https://techeconomy.ng/?p=176730 NIVEA’s ₦3 billion consumer promotion has entered Week 7, producing 70 ₦1 million winners and over 450,000 airtime and voucher beneficiaries across Nigeria

The post NIVEA ₦3bn Promo Enters Week 7 as 70 Nigerians Win ₦1m Each appeared first on Tech | Business | Economy.

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The NIVEA ₦3 billion national consumer promo has reached week 7, with more winners announced across Nigeria.

At the draw held on February 19, 10 more consumers won ₦1 million each. Among them are Ismaila Ayinde Omoshalewa from Ibadan and Okereke Happiness Chidinma from Delta State, both of whom have received their prize money.

Ismaila said the win came at a necessary time for his family.

This money has really come to solve major problems for my family. I’m spending part of it to complete my children’s school fees, pay our rent, and I’m putting the rest in my wife’s business,” he said.

Chidinma also spoke about the moment she got the call.

“I was amazed to have won because I just thought of trying out the product, then I got a call that I won. My husband and I already made a plan about how to expend the prize money,” she shared.

With seven draws completed, the company says more than 450,000 Nigerians have won different rewards since the promotion began.

So far, 70 consumers have won and redeemed ₦1 million each. More than 350 winners have received ₦50,000 Jumia shopping vouchers, while about 450,000 participants have enjoyed ₦1,000 instant airtime.

NIVEA ₦3bn Promo Week 7

The promotion runs for 12 weeks. Participants who buy any NIVEA 400ml Body Lotion variant such as Cocoa, Rich Nourishing, Even Glow, Advanced Care, Perfect & Radiant, or Deep, can find a unique code on the pack, scratch it, and dial 7022code# to enter.

Each valid entry provides ₦1,000 airtime instantly and qualifies the buyer for the weekly draws.

Beyond the weekly prizes, bigger rewards are also on offer. At the end of the campaign, participants stand a chance to win ₦5 million, ₦3 million, ₦2 million, three brand new SUVs, and ten all-expense-paid trips to Spain to watch Real Madrid live at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium.

Fiyin Toyo, marketing director for Central, East & West Africa (CEWA) at Beiersdorf, said the response has been strong across the country.

Entering Week 7 and seeing the excitement continue to build across Nigeria is incredibly inspiring for us. What stands out most is the consistency – Nigerians are winning every single week, and the process remains transparent and verifiable. 

“This promotion was created to genuinely reward our consumers at scale, and we still have several weeks and major prizes ahead. There are many more opportunities to win, and we encourage everyone to keep participating.”

She added that every eligible purchase gives instant value and more chances to win before the promotion ends.

Regulators have approved the promotion. The National Lottery Regulatory Commission, Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority, and the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission are overseeing it.

With five weeks left, the company says entries are still open nationwide and more winners will emerge in the coming draws.

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