By Chiagoziem Abosi
Edited by Bababunmi Agbebi
More Nigerians are turning to airtime-on-credit services as rising living costs continue to put pressure on household incomes, according to recent industry data.
A report by the GSMA revealed that consumers in Nigeria and several other markets purchased approximately $3.1 billion worth of airtime and data on credit over the past year, highlighting the growing reliance on digital borrowing solutions.
The trend reflects the increasing importance of mobile connectivity in everyday life and the financial realities facing many consumers.
As inflation continues to affect purchasing power, many consumers are finding it difficult to maintain regular spending on data and airtime. As a result, borrowing airtime has become a temporary solution when funds are unavailable.
Industry experts say the popularity of airtime credit services demonstrates both the importance of digital connectivity and the financial strain facing households.
In Ikeja, where thousands of residents depend on mobile internet for work and business activities, airtime borrowing has become increasingly common.
Ride-hailing drivers need data to receive bookings. Small business owners rely on messaging apps to communicate with customers. Students use internet access for learning and research, while remote workers depend on stable connectivity for their jobs.
For many of these groups, running out of airtime can mean missing opportunities or losing income.
This explains why airtime borrowing services continue to gain popularity despite the additional charges that often accompany them.
For many Nigerians, borrowing airtime is no longer just an emergency option. It has become part of everyday survival in a difficult economy.
