Fibre-optic cables, crucial to Nigeria’s digital economy and national security, are under threat. The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) have warned that repeated damage during roadworks and civil projects will no longer be tolerated.
NSCDC’s National Public Relations Officer, Afolabi Babawale, said that preventable cuts caused by negligence are on the rise, stressing that those responsible will face prosecution under existing laws.
The agencies highlighted that fibre-optic networks are officially classified as Critical National Information Infrastructure under the 2024 Designation and Protection Order. These networks are vital for government operations, business connectivity, emergency services, and uninterrupted communication nationwide. Any damage, accidental or deliberate, poses serious risks to national security, public safety, and economic stability.
The NCC and NSCDC warned that individuals, construction firms, or government contractors who damage these networks without proper coordination with telecom operators and regulators will face strict legal consequences under the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act 2015 and related laws.
To prevent future incidents, the agencies urged all stakeholders, including government agencies, utility providers, construction companies, and private developers to – Conduct pre-construction checks to map fibre-optic routes, coordinate with the NCC, NSCDC, and telecom operators throughout projects, follow approved excavation and right-of-way procedures, report any accidental damage immediately to ensure rapid repairs.
The NCC and NSCDC emphasized that compliance is mandatory, warning that negligence or deliberate harm will meet with “severe sanctions” to protect Nigeria’s communication infrastructure.
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