Interim Injunction Protects Essential Telecommunications Services

A Federal High Court in Nigeria has issued an interim injunction preventing MTN and Airtel from disrupting services provided by Nairtime, a subsidiary of global AI-powered financial infrastructure group Optasia. The ruling, delivered on April 24, 2026, protects critical telecommunications platforms including Short Codes, SMS, USSD, and billing systems.

The intervention comes after the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) issued directives that threatened to leave millions of Nigerians without access to essential digital services. These services enable consumers, particularly those underserved by traditional banking, to purchase airtime and data on credit—a vital lifeline for daily communication, work, education, and digital inclusion.

The court’s decision reinforces the legitimacy of Nairtime’s operations under its valid Value-Added Service (VAS) license from the Nigerian Communications Commission. The company maintains it has consistently complied with all regulatory requirements.

Preserving Digital Inclusion

Ms Uchenna Agbo, Chief Commercial Officer of Optasia and CEO of Nairtime Nigeria Limited, emphasized that this ruling is about protecting vulnerable consumers: “This decision ensures millions retain uninterrupted access to essential digital services. Over time, responsible usage can help them build creditworthiness and improve their financial opportunities.”

Nairtime’s platform uses AI-driven lending to provide connectivity when it’s needed most while adhering to strict risk controls. The company is committed to working with MTN, Airtel, and regulators to restore full service value without further disruption.

Expanding Financial Ecosystem

Optasia, which listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange in late 2025, was founded in Nigeria and provides the infrastructure that connects mobile networks and banks to millions of underserved customers. Its platform uses proprietary AI to process credit decisions in under one second, leveraging alternative data for those who lack formal credit histories.

Beyond telecommunications, Optasia is expanding into SME finance, merchant solutions, and other digital lending products—aiming to build a comprehensive financial ecosystem that benefits all Nigerians.