Mobile subscribers across Nigeria and other parts of Africa took a total of $3.18 billion worth of airtime on credit in 2025, a new report by fintech company Optasia has shown.
Africa dominated the global figures, accounting for over 94% of the total airtime credit extended by the company during the year.
Sharp Rise in Borrowing
According to Optasia’s 2025 financial statements, airtime advances granted to telecom subscribers increased by 12.3% from $2.83 billion in 2024 to $3.18 billion last year.
In naira terms, this amounted to roughly N4.61 trillion in 2025, compared to about N4.38 trillion the previous year.
The company described the amount as service fees earned on airtime credit facilities offered through its telecom partners.
Growing Dependence on Credit
The surge in airtime borrowing reflects the heavy reliance of many Nigerians on credit options to maintain mobile connectivity, especially in a prepaid market where cash flow challenges are common.
This trend highlights the increasing role of digital credit services in bridging affordability gaps for voice and data usage among low- and middle-income users across the continent.
Optasia’s strong performance in Africa underscores the expanding demand for flexible payment solutions in emerging markets, even as operators and fintechs work to manage associated credit risks.
