Nigerians, others borrow $3.18bn in airtime credit in 2025

Millions of mobile phone users across Africa are increasingly dependent on small-value digital credit products, as evidenced by a 12.3% rise in airtime advances granted by fintech firm Optasia in 2025. The company's financial statements show these advances reached $3.18 billion globally, with Africa accounting for over 94% of the total.

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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.

In naira terms, the airtime advances amounted to approximately N4.61 trillion in 2025. Despite the growth in dollar terms, the naira value saw a slower increase due to a strengthening exchange rate. This trend underscores the reliance on such services in economies where access to formal financial services is limited and household purchasing power is under pressure.

Optasia utilizes a technology platform that assesses subscribers' behavior and credit history to determine eligibility for airtime advances and nano-loans. The company also assumes part of the credit risk, indemnifying mobile network operators if subscribers fail to repay within a specified period.

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As part of the airtime credit service, the Group also commits to indemnify the MNO for the amount of advance so granted, in case the subscriber fails to pay the same within a specified period of time from the date of grant of advance.

Beyond airtime lending, Optasia reported a significant surge in nano-loan transactions, facilitating $2.30 billion in 2025, more than double the previous year's amount. Africa represented 61.4% of these nano-loans. The growth in both airtime lending and nano-loans highlights the expanding role of digital credit in emerging markets.

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