Nigerian Communications Commission urges protection of fibre infrastructure

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has called for improved coordination between road construction companies, contractors, and engineers to prevent damage to fibre-optic infrastructure. During a stakeholders’ workshop in Abuja, NCC Executive Vice Chairman Dr. Aminu Maida emphasized that while physical road expansion is necessary, it must not undermine the digital networks essential for banking, healthcare, security, and government services.

Maida reported that over 5,000 fibre-cut incidents were recorded during the first half of 2026 due to road construction, excavation, and other civil works. He noted that such disruptions can lead to failed calls, stalled payments, and interrupted services, impacting both individuals and the broader economy. He cited a major nationwide disruption in February 2024 as a precedent for the severe consequences of these infrastructure failures.