If you have ever been stuck in the middle of a call or run out of data during something important online, you know how helpful it is to borrow mobile credit. But if you tried using the old shortcodes to borrow credit in Nigeria recently, you probably saw an error message or the service just didn’t work.
After a nationwide suspension of all network lending services by the FCCPC, Airtel Nigeria is now the first major telecom operator to bring back its airtime borrowing service.
This updated 2026 guide will show you the new steps to borrow airtime from Airtel, explain the latest lending rules, and cover what’s going on if you’re still trying to borrow on MTN or Glo.
Why Were Airtime Borrowing Services Suspended?
In early 2026, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) put strict new rules in place for consumer lending. Since borrowing airtime or data counts as a micro-loan, telecom companies had to stop these services until they met the new licensing and transparency requirements.
While other networks areOther networks are still working to restore their services, but Airtel has finished its compliance checks. Now, over 63 million Airtel subscribers can legally borrow credit again.– wp:heading –>
Eligibility: Who Can Borrow Airtime on Airtel?
Airtel does not let new SIM cards borrow money right away. To use the reactivated service, your line needs to meet these requirements:
- Your Airtel SIM card must be registered and active for at least 2 months (60 days).
- You must frequently recharge your line manually (via scratch cards, bank apps, or OPay/PalmPay).
- You must have settled any previously borrowed airtime or data balances.
The New Code to Borrow Airtime from Airtel
Method 1:
1. Open your phone’s dialer and dial *321# (or the alternative *500# portal).
2. A menu will appear on your screen showing options for Borrow Airtime or Borrow Data.
3. Select the number corresponding to your choice.
4. The system will display the maximum amount you are eligible to borrow based on your monthly recharge history (ranging from ₦50 up to ₦5,000).
5. Select your preferred amount and confirm.
Method 2:
If you have a smartphone running the MyAirtel app:
1. Open the app and log in with your phone number.
2. Look for the “Kredit” or “Borrow Credit” icon on the home dashboard.
3. Choose your amount and tap confirm.
Supply:
- Registered Airtel SIM card.
Tools:
- Smartphone
Method 1: The USSD Code (Fastest)
- Open your phone’s dialer and dial
*321#(or the alternative*500#portal). - A menu will appear on your screen showing options for Borrow Airtime or Borrow Data.
- Select the number corresponding to your choice.
- The system will display the maximum amount you are eligible to borrow based on your monthly recharge history (ranging from ₦50 up to ₦5,000).
- Select your preferred amount and confirm.
Your account will be credited right away, and you’ll get a confirmation SMS.
Method 2: Via the MyAirtel App
If you have a smartphone running the MyAirtel app:
- Open the app and log in with your phone number.
- Look for the “Kredit” or “Borrow Credit” icon on the home dashboard.
- Choose your amount and tap confirm.
Understanding the Service Charge (The Fine Print)
The new 2026 consumer rules require Airtel to clearly show all service fees.
- When you borrow airtime, a 15% service fee is deducted from the loan amount upfront.
- For example, if you borrow ₦500, you will receive ₦425 in your main account, while ₦75 goes to Airtel as a service charge.
- The full ₦500 will be automatically deducted the next time you top up your line via a bank app or physical recharge card.
FAQ: What About MTN, Glo, and 9mobile?
Why is my MTN borrow airtime code still not working?
While Airtel has successfully restored its crAirtel has brought back its credit service, but MTN Nigeria is still working on its compliance checks. Right now, millions of MTN users cannot use XtraByte, but the service should return later this year.”:3} –>
Can I borrow data instead of airtime on Airtel?
Yes! When you dial *321#, just choose the “Borrow Data” option. The system will let you pick a data bundle based on your eligibility. Did the new code work for you? If you see a “Not Eligible” error, leave a comment below with your SIM card’s age, and we’ll help you find out why.
