MTN Nigeria has announced the temporary suspension of its airtime and data advance service, Xtratime, following new regulatory requirements introduced by the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC).

The telecom giant disclosed the development in a filing to the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) on Thursday, stating that the move is necessary to comply with the FCCPC’s Digital, Electronic, Online or Non-Traditional Consumer Lending Regulations, 2025.

Xtratime, widely used by prepaid subscribers, allows customers to borrow airtime or data and repay on their next recharge.

In the disclosure signed by Uto Ukpanah, company secretary, the firm confirmed the halt, noting, “MTN Nigeria Communications PLC hereby notifies the Nigerian Exchange Limited and the investing public that the company has temporarily suspended its airtime and data credit advance service (‘Xtratime’).”

The company explained that the service now falls within the scope of the FCCPC’s expanded regulatory framework, which mandates fresh licensing and stricter compliance procedures for digital credit providers.

“The suspension relates to the implementation of processes under the Digital, Electronic, Online or Non-Traditional Consumer Lending Regulations, 2025, which introduced a new compliance and licensing framework for entities providing digital or non-traditional consumer credit services,” the statement added.

Despite the suspension, MTN reassured subscribers that alternative channels for purchasing airtime and data remain fully operational. It also downplayed the financial impact of the move.

“Given the scale within the revenue mix, we do not expect the temporary suspension to have a material impact,” the company said, adding that it is closely monitoring customer behaviour and will provide further updates in its first-quarter 2026 results.

The FCCPC’s 2025 regulations significantly broaden oversight of Nigeria’s digital lending ecosystem, bringing telecom operators and other providers of short-term credit services under stricter scrutiny. Companies offering such services are now required to register and obtain regulatory approval to continue operations.

The Commission had initially introduced a framework for digital lending in 2022, but expanded it in 2025 amid rising concerns over consumer debt, data privacy and lending practices.

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has rolled out an artificial intelligence (AI) driven capacity-building programme to improve revenue generation and reconciliation across its operations.

The initiative, unveiled during a three-day training event in Abuja, aims to transition the agency toward data-driven administration as Nigeria seeks to boost non-oil revenue.

The adoption of AI will enable the service to better manage complex trade systems, detect anomalies and reduce revenue leakages, says Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, comptroller-general of the NCS.

AI-powered tools are already being integrated into risk management and cargo scanning systems to allow for real-time analysis of trade patterns.

The technology marks a transition from manual, reactive processes to predictive and automated decision-making, Adeniyi adds.

The programme also reflects a shift in the relationship between the NCS and the National Assembly toward a collaborative framework focused on transparency and efficiency.

The training is a strategic intervention to address persistent gaps in revenue management, says Kikelomo Adeola, deputy comptroller-general of the NCS.

AI applications, ranging from automated data analysis to predictive intelligence, will significantly enhance the integrity of public financial systems, she says.

The initiative aligns with broader efforts to modernise governance and improve compliance across revenue-generating agencies, says Bamidele Salam, chairman of the House Public Accounts Committee.

Lawmakers and fiscal authorities at the event underscored the urgency of adopting advanced technologies amid rising budgetary pressures.

This move comes as the federal government increases scrutiny over revenue leakages and audit discrepancies.

The partnership between the NCS and the legislature is critical to strengthening fiscal discipline and ensuring all revenue due to the federation is accurately captured, Adeniyi concludes.

Meta Description: Tired of ad payment failures? Discover the most reliable virtual cards in Nigeria for running Facebook, Google, and TikTok ads without interruptions.

One of the biggest challenges digital marketers face in Nigeria today is finding a payment method that actually works for ad platforms.

Issues like frequent transaction failures, unexpected restrictions, and constantly changing bank policies can interrupt your campaigns at the worst possible time, making it hard to stay consistent.

That’s why many marketers are now turning to virtual cards, which offer a more stable, globally accepted way to handle online payments without the usual stress.

If you’re currently dealing with failed payments or need a more reliable way to run ads, this article will walk you through the most reliable virtual card options in Nigeria and help you choose what works best.

7 Best Virtual Cards You Can Use in Nigeria for Running Ads

Choosing the right virtual card for running ads in Nigeria isn’t just about availability; it’s about transaction success rate, global acceptance, funding speed, fees, and overall reliability.

To make things easier, the table below highlights how Cardtonic, Wallets Africa, CashBuddy, Snappypay, Pouchers, Bitmama, and Flip by Fluidcoins compare across key features that matter for running ads effectively.

1. Cardtonic:

Cardtonic is often regarded as one of the best virtual cards in Nigeria for running ads because it combines convenience, reliability, and ease of use in a way that suits both individuals and businesses.

When you’re paying for ads on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Google, or TikTok, one of the biggest concerns is whether your payment method will work smoothly without constant declines or interruptions. That is where Cardtonic comes in, as it gives users access to a virtual dollar card designed for international payments, making it a practical choice for ad spending.

What makes the platform even more appealing is that it also offers contactless cards, which let you make payments quickly and securely without swiping or inserting the card. This feature adds an extra layer of convenience for users who want fast transactions, whether online or at supported payment terminals.

What truly makes Cardtonic stand out is how it brings together accessibility, smooth funding, and reliable international payment support in one place.

So, if you are looking for a reliable platform for ad payments, Cardtonic is one option that clearly deserves a spot on the list.

2. Wallet Africa:

Wallets Africa is meant for users who want more than just a card to pay for ads. It works better as an all-in-one financial platform, which makes it useful for business owners, freelancers, and marketers who like managing payments from one place.

Beyond offering virtual cards, the platform is built around sending money, spending online, and handling digital transactions across Africa, so it feels broader than a tool meant for one single purpose.

That broader structure is really where Wallets Africa plays its role. For someone running ads regularly, it can be convenient to have a platform that supports both wallet functions and card payments instead of jumping between different apps.

It is less about being flashy and more about giving users a practical setup for online spending, especially when you want your ad payments to sit within a wider money management system.

3. Cashbuddy:

CashBuddy feels more like a platform for users who value simplicity and speed. Its offering goes beyond virtual cards into other digital payment services, but the virtual card side is positioned around secure dollar and naira card access for global payments.

That makes it useful for advertisers who want something straightforward for campaign payments without dealing with too much complexity.

Where CashBuddy plays its role best is in accessibility. It fits users who may not need an advanced financial ecosystem but just want a platform that helps them get a working card and handle international payments with less stress.

So while some platforms lean into broader wallet features or multicurrency tools, CashBuddy feels more like the practical option for getting started and keeping things easy to manage.

4. Snappypay:

Snappypay has a slightly different appeal because it presents itself strongly around smooth online payments and virtual dollar cards that can be used across many platforms.

That makes it a natural fit for people who run ads often and do not want a card that feels limited to only one or two use cases. The platform also combines its virtual cards with other digital payment services, which adds to the convenience for users already handling several online expenses at once.

What makes Snappypay useful in this list is that it feels built for everyday digital spending. If Wallets Africa comes across as more ecosystem-driven and CashBuddy feels more basic and direct, Snappypay sits in the middle as the platform for users who want a smoother, more flexible payment experience for ads, subscriptions, and other online transactions without overcomplicating the process.

5. Pouchers:

Pouchers is one of the more ad-friendly options here because it explicitly positions its virtual dollar card for payments on platforms like Meta and for running ads.

That makes its role in this list much clearer. Instead of leaving users to guess whether the card may work for ad spend, the platform directly presents that use case as one of its strengths, which gives it more relevance for marketers and business owners.

Another thing that makes Pouchers different is its multicurrency and stablecoin angle, which gives it a more modern, borderless feel compared with platforms that are built mainly around local wallet operations.

So, for users whose work already involves international payments, online tools, and ad platforms, Pouchers plays its role as the flexible option that is shaped more around digital commerce than traditional payment habits.

6. Bitmama:

Bitmama plays a more specialized role because it is better known for combining crypto and borderless payments. That already sets it apart from the more conventional platforms on this list.

For advertisers or freelancers who are already comfortable moving money through digital assets, Bitmama can feel like a more flexible option, especially when international transactions are part of their normal workflow.

This makes it less of an everyday beginner platform and more of a fit for users who like operating in a more global, digital-first payment environment.

So while a platform like CashBuddy may appeal to someone looking for a simple starting point, Bitmama feels more suited to users who want ad payments to sit within a wider international or crypto-enabled setup. That difference gives it a distinct place on the list.

7. Flip By Fluidcoins:

Flip by Fluidcoins leans into the crypto-powered side of digital payments, positioning itself as a faster, more lightweight option for users who want flexibility with cross-border transactions.

Its strength is not in trying to cover everything, but in serving a more niche group of users who already understand digital finance and need a smoother way to handle international payments, especially for ad spending.

What sets it apart is its modern, alternative approach. It focuses less on traditional banking features and more on giving users fewer restrictions when moving funds globally.

For advertisers in that space, it works best as a flexible, niche solution rather than a full all-in-one financial platform.

Frequently Asked Questions About Virtual Cards For Running Ads in Nigeria

1. Which Virtual Card is Best For Running Ads in Nigeria?

The best dollar virtual card in Nigeria for running ads is Cardtonic. It’s widely trusted for its reliability, smooth international payments, and ease of use, making it a practical choice for managing ad spend without interruptions.

2. Can I Use a Virtual Card to Pay for Google Ads, Facebook Ads, or TikTok Ads?

Yes, you can. Most virtual cards issued by platforms in Nigeria, like Cardtonic, Pouchers, or CashBuddy, are accepted on major advertising platforms, including Google, Facebook, and TikTok.

3. How Do I Fund a Virtual Card for Advertising Campaigns in Nigeria?

Funding a virtual card is usually straightforward. Most platforms allow you to load funds from your local bank account, Naira wallet, or even crypto wallets in some cases. Simply log into your virtual card account, choose the funding method, enter the amount, and confirm. Once the funds reflect, you can start running ads immediately.

4. Are Virtual Cards Secure For Paying International Ad Platforms?

Yes, virtual cards are designed to be secure. They often include features such as temporary card numbers, spend limits, and the ability to block or freeze the card instantly if needed.

5. How Fast Can I Get a Virtual Card and Start Running Ads Online?

You can usually get a virtual card almost instantly after signing up and completing the KYC verification process. Platforms like Cardtonic or Snappypay issue cards immediately, so you can fund the card and start running ads within minutes.

Conclusion

Running ads on platforms like TikTok, Facebook, or Google from Nigeria can be challenging without a reliable payment method. That’s why virtual cards offer a convenient and secure solution, allowing you to fund your campaigns quickly and manage payments without interruptions.

Whether you’re looking to pay for TikTok ads, Google Ads, or other online campaigns, platforms like Wallets Africa, CashBuddy, Snappypay, Pouchers, Bitmama, and Flip by Fluidcoins all offer options to suit different needs.

For those who want a combination of reliability, ease of use, and smooth international payments, Cardtonic is highly recommended for managing your ad spending efficiently.