NCC Urges Contractors To Protect Digital Backbone, Decries Over 5,000 Fibre Cuts In 6 Months
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has urged road contractors and stakeholders to better coordinate and protect fibre-optic cables during construction and civil works nationwide.
The Executive Vice Chairman, Dr Aminu Maida, made the call at a workshop in Abuja, stressing that physical infrastructure expansion must not damage Nigeria’s digital backbone.
He said fibre networks support banking, government services, education, healthcare and security, warning that damage can disrupt essential services and cost the economy heavily.
Maida noted over 5,000 fibre cuts were recorded in six months due to construction activities, while a major incident in February 2024 disrupted services for millions of users.
He said the issue is not about blame but improving coordination among stakeholders, adding that a standing committee has been set up to strengthen planning before and during road works.
The NCC Boss also said telecom infrastructure has been classified as Critical National Information Infrastructure, requiring stronger protection and accountability.
Maida urged all stakeholders to adopt practical coordination measures to prevent damage, stressing the need to protect both roads and fibre networks as essential national assets.
