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The Lagos State Infrastructure Maintenance and Regulatory Agency (LASIMRA) has launched the Lagos City Mast and Tower Enumeration Project. It is aimed at mapping and auditing all communication towers and masts across Lagos State.

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Strengthening Telecom Infrastructure and Public Safety in Lagos

Announced in a statement signed by LASIMRA General Manager/CEO, Prince Oyekanmi Elegushi, the initiative is being executed in collaboration with the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON).

This comprehensive enumeration is designed to:
Ensure public safety by addressing concerns over abandoned masts
Develop a database distinguishing telecom towers from non-telecom structures
Enhance regulatory oversight and compliance
Improve infrastructure planning and management across Lagos

The project is endorsed by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and co-sponsored by ALTON members, reinforcing the industry’s commitment to self-regulation, risk management, and public safety.

“This initiative demonstrates our commitment to self-regulation, proactive risk management, and safeguarding public interest. By maintaining a robust and secure infrastructure in Lagos State and across Nigeria, we strengthen industry-led solutions, enhance our reputation, and foster stronger relationships with regulators and stakeholders,” stated ALTON Chairman Gbenga Adebayo and Executive Secretary Gbolahan Awonuga.

Why Lagos Needs a Comprehensive Mast and Tower Audit

Clarifying Ownership and Strengthening Compliance

Many communication towers in Lagos are not owned by telecommunications operators but instead belong to:
📡 Broadcasting companies (TV and radio stations)
🏛️ Government agencies and emergency services (police, fire, military, defense)
🏦 Financial institutions and private security firms
🏢 Other private and public organizations

However, public perception often attributes all towers to telecom operators, leading to regulatory challenges. This enumeration will provide a clear distinction between telecom and non-telecom masts, allowing the Lagos State Planning Authorities to take necessary actions where needed.

“The Lagos State Government has emphasized the need to address public safety risks associated with abandoned towers. This exercise will ensure regulatory clarity and prevent potential hazards,” noted Elegushi.

Enhancing Public Safety and Environmental Sustainability

As Lagos rapidly urbanizes, concerns over structural integrity, radiation risks, and environmental sustainability of communication infrastructure have increased. This project will:
✔️ Ensure that masts and towers meet safety standards
✔️ Identify and remove abandoned or hazardous structures
✔️ Promote sustainable telecom infrastructure deployment

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ALTON’s Commitment to Industry-Led Solutions

ALTON has assured stakeholders that this initiative will serve as a model for similar projects across other Nigerian cities as part of a broader Phase 2 rollout.

“We call on all stakeholders to support this exercise to ensure its success in the public interest and for the safety and well-being of all. ALTON remains committed to working with LASIMRA and the Lagos State Government to achieve these goals,” the statement added.

Next Steps: Implementation and Compliance

🔹 Data Collection: LASIMRA and ALTON teams will map out existing masts across Lagos.
🔹 Infrastructure Audit: Identifying structures that require regulatory updates, reinforcement, or removal.
🔹 Stakeholder Engagement: Telecom operators, government agencies, and businesses will be required to comply with the enumeration process.
🔹 Phase 2 Expansion: After Lagos, the initiative is expected to expand to other major cities in Nigeria.

Towards more sustainable telecom infrastructure

The Lagos City Mast and Tower Enumeration Project is a major step toward safer, better-regulated, and more sustainable telecom infrastructure. By identifying abandoned towers, ensuring compliance, and improving oversight, Lagos is setting a precedent for infrastructure planning and public safety across Nigeria.

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With strong backing from LASIMRA, ALTON, and the NCC, this initiative reinforces Lagos State’s commitment to a smarter, safer, and more connected future.

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