Nigerian Authorities Dismantle Cartel Behind Telecom Infrastructure Vandalism
ABUJA, NIGERIA – A major breakthrough has been recorded in the fight against telecom infrastructure vandalism in Nigeria, as authorities confirm the dismantling of a cartel responsible for widespread attacks on the nation’s critical communications assets.
The announcement was made by the Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Dr. Aminu Maida, during a Business Roundtable on improving broadband investment and protecting national infrastructure, held in Abuja.
Dr. Maida revealed that the success was achieved through a joint operation involving the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), the NCC, and the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC). The collaboration is part of a broader effort to protect Critical National Assets and Infrastructure from ongoing threats.
Despite this success, Maida expressed deep concern over the continued attacks on telecom infrastructure. He disclosed that between January and October 2024, the industry recorded over 20,000 fibre cuts and 4,000 cases of equipment theft, resulting in billions of naira in damages and service disruptions.
"These acts of sabotage not only affect operators financially but also compromise the quality and reliability of telecom services across the country," Maida said.
He also pointed out that restricted access to telecom facilities and delays in response to incidents are compounding the industry's challenges.
Industry stakeholders present at the event commended the government’s renewed commitment to securing telecom infrastructure. They stressed that protecting these assets is essential to fostering digital transformation, attracting investment in broadband expansion, and maintaining national security.
The NCC and its partners have pledged to sustain the momentum and strengthen inter-agency collaboration to ensure that telecom infrastructure remains safe, accessible, and reliable across Nigeria.
By Benita B.Ibrahim
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