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Regulators Move to Curb Rising Fibre Cuts Nationwide
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) have issued a strong warning to construction companies, government contractors, and other stakeholders over the increasing damage to fibre-optic cables during road construction and civil works across Nigeria.
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The agencies stressed that avoidable fibre cuts caused by negligence will no longer be tolerated, warning that offenders now face prosecution, as damage to fibre infrastructure constitutes a criminal offence under Nigerian law.
Fibre Optic Infrastructure Classified as Critical National Asset
In a joint statement signed by Mrs. Nnenna Ukoha, Head of Public Affairs at the NCC, and Babawale Afolabi, National Public Relations Officer of the NSCDC, the agencies described fibre-optic cables as critical national assets that underpin Nigeria’s digital economy.
According to the statement, fibre infrastructure enables seamless communications, supports emergency services, connects businesses, and facilitates government operations. Its destruction—whether through negligence, poor coordination, or deliberate actions—poses a direct threat to national security, economic stability, and public safety.
Legal Backing Under CNII Order and Cybercrimes Act
The NCC and NSCDC cited the Designation and Protection of Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII) Order 2024, which classifies telecommunications fibre infrastructure as Critical National Information Infrastructure.
“Any damage resulting from unauthorised excavation, construction activities, or failure to engage relevant authorities during civil works constitutes a criminal offence,” the agencies stated.
They further warned that offenders will be prosecuted under applicable laws, including the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act 2015.
Zero Tolerance for Unauthorised Excavation
The agencies issued a clear warning. Any future damage to fibre-optic infrastructure from excavation or construction activities without proper regulatory consultation will face strict legal consequences. This firm stance underscores the mandatory need for collaboration between project developers and network operators to prevent service disruptions.
Compliance Guidelines for Construction and Utility Providers
To prevent further incidents, the NCC and NSCDC called on federal, state, and local government agencies to fully comply with established procedures. Other stakeholders include construction firms, utility service providers, and private developers. Key requirements include:
- Conducting pre-construction verification of fibre routes
- Collaborating with the NCC, telecom operators, and NSCDC before and during construction
- Adhering to approved excavation and Right-of-Way (RoW) management guidelines
- Reporting accidental fibre damage immediately to enable swift mitigation
Public Urged to Report Fibre Infrastructure Damage
Members of the public are encouraged to report any cases of fibre-optic infrastructure damage or sabotage to the nearest NSCDC office. Government can be notified via email at [email protected] or [email protected], or by calling the 622 toll-free line.
Protecting Nigeria’s Digital Backbone
The NCC and NSCDC reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s telecommunications infrastructure. They stressed that protecting fibre-optic networks is essential to sustaining the country’s digital economy and national security.
