In a reflection of Nigeria's growing economic challenges, many mobile phone users are caught in a frustrating cycle of borrowing airtime to stay connected.
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A common scenario sees customers borrowing credit to make urgent calls, buying airtime to repay the loan, only to borrow again moments later to continue their conversations.
This airtime debt loop highlights the financial strain on citizens who, faced with rising living costs, find it difficult to maintain even basic mobile communication.
Speaking on the issue, a mobile user, Zugu Destiny Hamza, shared his experience: "Sometimes you borrow N100 to make a call, recharge with N200 to pay back, but end up with nothing left. So you borrow again it’s like a trap."
Telecommunication providers have defended the airtime loan service as a helpful tool for emergencies, but critics argue that the fees charged on borrowed airtime add to customers' financial burdens.
With the cost of living continuing to rise, this cycle underscores the pressures on everyday Nigerians trying to stay connected in an increasingly digital world.
Analysts suggest that a review of loan service charges and more affordable mobile plans could offer some relief to consumers.
For now, however, the airtime borrowing cycle remains an emblem of the struggles faced by many in the country.