By 
Telecom industry raises alarm over fuel supply disruption to critical infrastructure
The Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) has sounded the alarm over disruptions to diesel supply for powering cell sites nationwide. ALTON represents all mobile network operators, tower companies, and telecom infrastructure providers in the country.
RELATED: ALTON raises alarm over nationwide telecom infrastructure vandalism threatening network stability
According to ALTON Chairman, Gbenga Adebayo, credible reports indicate that on Tuesday, members of the Nigerian Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) and the Natural Oil and Gas Suppliers Association of Nigeria (NOGASA) blocked access to diesel depots in Kaduna, Lagos, and Koko (Delta State).
The blockade has prevented the distribution of diesel to thousands of telecommunications sites operated by IHS Towers, one of ALTON’s key members.
Dispute Over Diesel Misappropriation Sparks Industry Crisis
The industrial action reportedly stems from allegations by IHS Towers of diesel misappropriation involving two NOGASA member companies. This matter is currently under investigation by the relevant authorities.
ALTON warned that the ongoing blockade threatens the operation of some 16,000 telecommunications sites nationwide. All of these sites are powering mobile and internet services for millions of Nigerians and support critical services such as:
- Banking transactions
- Hospital communications
- Emergency response systems
- National security operations
ALTON Calls for Immediate Resolution and Access to Diesel Depots
While ALTON does not typically interfere in disputes between members and third parties, Adebayo stressed that the broader impact on national infrastructure and public safety is too serious to ignore.
“We respect the important role NOGASA and NUPENG play in Nigeria’s energy sector, but we urge them to ensure their actions do not jeopardize critical national infrastructure or public welfare,” Adebayo said.
The association is calling for:
- Immediate, uninterrupted access to diesel loading depots
- Constructive dialogue among parties to resolve the dispute
- Strict adherence to legal frameworks for dispute resolution
Telecom Infrastructure Classified as Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII)
ALTON reminded all stakeholders that telecom infrastructure is officially designated as Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII) under Nigerian law. Any deliberate action disrupting CNII operations is considered a serious threat to national security and economic stability and may carry severe legal consequences.
Adebayo called on NUPENG and NOGASA leadership to intervene, warning that prolonged disruptions could trigger a nationwide communications blackout.
Urgent Appeal to Government and Security Agencies
ALTON urged the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), and other key stakeholders to act swiftly to prevent a collapse in telecom services.
“Disruptions of this nature undermine our ability to maintain reliable telecommunications services and threaten Nigeria’s entire digital ecosystem,” Adebayo concluded.
