Nigerian Communications Commission reports over 5,000 fiber optic cable cuts in six months due to roadworks

These disruptions were primarily caused by road construction, excavation, and other civil works. Dr. Aminu Maida, the Executive Vice-Chairman of the NCC, stated that such damage to fiber infrastructure can interrupt essential digital services and incur significant costs for telecommunications operators, businesses, and citizens. He highlighted that inadequate coordination among stakeholders before construction activities often leads to these incidents.

The consequences extend beyond telecom operators, affecting banking, government services, education, healthcare, commerce, security, and emergency communications. A previous incident in February 2024, involving fiber cuts from road construction, led to a widespread network disruption for one operator, impacting millions of subscribers. To address this, a Standing Committee on the Protection of Fibre Optic Cables has been established by the Permanent Secretaries of the Federal Ministry of Works and the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, with expanded membership to include the Office of the National Security Adviser.

Telecommunications infrastructure has been designated as Critical National Information Infrastructure, emphasizing the need for construction companies and contractors to understand their responsibilities. Nadungu Gagare, Pe