Optasia report shows Africa accounts for 94% of global airtime credit, as fintech sector faces regulatory review

Millions of mobile phone users in Lagos and across Nigeria borrowed a record ₦4.61 trillion in airtime credit in 2025, according to new figures from fintech company Optasia. The company’s latest financial report, released on Monday, revealed that demand for telecom-based lending surged throughout the year as living costs continued to rise and access to traditional banking remained limited for many Nigerians.

The data showed that customers across emerging markets borrowed $3.18 billion (₦4.61trn) in airtime on credit, with Africa accounting for more than 94 percent of the total amount. According to Optasia, the value of airtime credit issued through telecom operators increased by 12.3 percent compared to $2.83 billion (₦4.38trn) recorded in 2024. Lagos remains one of the largest urban markets driving this demand, alongside other major cities across Africa.

Experts say the figures highlight how millions of Nigerians are increasingly depending on small-value digital loans—popularly known as nano-loans—to stay connected and manage daily expenses. “Airtime credit services represent service fees charged on airtime credit amounting to $3,176.34m (2024: $2,829.2m) granted to subscribers of the telecom operators during the year,” Optasia stated in its financial summary.

The report also revealed that nano-loan transactions more than doubled within the year, reaching $2.30 billion globally in 2025 from $967.9 million in 2024. Africa accounted for $1.41 billion (61 percent) of these loans, while Europe and Asia contributed $888.9 million combined. Optasia explained that its technology platform enables telecom operators and financial institutions to assess customer eligibility for these credits through behavioural analysis and automated scoring systems.

While this rapid growth has boosted revenue—Optasia’s earnings jumped by 75 percent to $265 million in 2025—the company faces regulatory uncertainty as authorities consider opening Nigeria’s airtime lending sector further to local fintech firms. The National Communications Commission (NCC) is expected to release new guidelines later this year to increase competition and consumer protection within the sector.

With profit after tax rising to $43 million and total assets more than doubling, industry analysts believe the trend will continue as economic pressures persist and more Nigerians seek quick digital solutions for essential services like mobile connectivity.

Source: https://www.pulse.ng/story/airtime-credit-hits-naira46tn-as-millions-of-nigerians-borrow-to-stay-connected-2026061506461058179

Airline moves domestic operations to upgraded Akwa Ibom facility, aiming to improve passenger experience and regional travel

Ibom Air commenced its domestic flight operations at the newly completed Uyo International Terminal in Akwa Ibom State on Monday, marking a significant step in enhancing air travel infrastructure in the South-South region. The airline, which is wholly owned by the Akwa Ibom State Government, relocated its operations from the old terminal to the upgraded facility as at 15 June 2026.

The transition saw Ibom Air handling all inbound and outbound domestic flights from the new terminal on the first day of service. Airport officials supervised the process to ensure a smooth migration for travellers, with ground staff guiding passengers through check-in and boarding procedures at the state-of-the-art building. The opening is expected to decongest the old terminal and provide improved amenities for both airlines and customers.

Akwa Ibom State has invested heavily in aviation infrastructure in recent years, positioning Uyo as a major hub for domestic flights in Nigeria’s Niger Delta. The new international terminal features expanded departure lounges, advanced security systems, and increased capacity for both passengers and airlines. The development comes amid rising demand for air travel within Nigeria, especially as road transport faces security and logistics challenges across many states.

Although no official statement was immediately available from Ibom Air management or Akwa Ibom State Government at press time, stakeholders have welcomed the move as a boost for regional connectivity. Travel analysts say relocating domestic operations will help streamline flight schedules and support economic activities linked to tourism and business travel in Akwa Ibom and neighbouring states.

With full operations now underway at the new terminal, attention will shift to how quickly other airlines follow suit and whether international carriers will begin scheduled services into Uyo. Aviation observers note that sustained improvements at Victor Attah International Airport could attract more investment into Akwa Ibom’s growing transport sector.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/business/business-news/887693-ibom-air-begins-domestic-operations-at-new-uyo-international-terminal.html

Both sides score late goals as Group B contest in Rotterdam ends level, leaving qualification hopes open

The Netherlands and Japan played out an entertaining 2-2 draw in their Group B clash at the ongoing FIFA World Cup, with both teams sharing points at the Rotterdam Stadium on Monday. The result leaves both nations with everything to play for in their quest for a place in the knockout stage.

The match saw the Dutch take an early lead before Japan responded strongly to equalise before half-time. In the second half, Japan appeared set for victory after taking a 2-1 advantage, but a late goal from the Netherlands ensured that the spoils were shared. Both sets of players delivered an energetic display, thrilling supporters inside the packed stadium.

This outcome keeps Group B finely poised, with each point now crucial for progression. For Nigerian football fans monitoring the competition, these results may influence potential knockout stage opponents for African representatives if they advance from their own group. The competitive nature of this encounter demonstrates the high standard at this year’s World Cup.

Neither coach addressed the media immediately after full time, but analysts say both teams will need to sharpen their finishing ahead of decisive fixtures later this week. With only one group game left for each side, attention now shifts to their final matches where qualification hopes will be decided.

Fans across Nigeria and beyond are watching closely as the tournament progresses, with every result shaping possible routes to the latter stages. Group B remains wide open following this dramatic encounter in Rotterdam.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/sports/football/887695-netherlands-japan-share-spoils-in-thrilling-2-2-world-cup-draw.html