CNI: Telcos Push Collaboration to Limit Fibre Cable Disruptions

Telecommunication companies in Nigeria are urging the federal government to work together to tackle the ongoing issue of fibre cable cuts. The Association of Telecoms Companies of Nigeria (ATCON) held a breakfast meeting in Lagos to discuss solutions and emphasized the need for strategic collaboration.

These cable disruptions, both terrestrial and submarine, cause significant economic and business challenges for the telecom industry.

ATCON President, Mr. Tony Emoekpere, highlighted the urgency of the situation: “We cannot continue to ignore these issues that hinder our industry’s growth.”

The breakfast meeting aimed to bring together key stakeholders, including the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), the Federal Road Maintenance Agency (FERMA), and the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA). By fostering collaboration, they hope to develop sustainable solutions to minimize these disruptions.

ATCON advocated for several measures, including declaring telecoms infrastructure as Critical National Infrastructure (CNI). This designation would emphasize the importance of these cables and potentially lead to stricter regulations and penalties for damage.

Additionally, the concept of a “Dig Once Policy” was proposed. This policy would require careful planning for infrastructure projects to avoid damaging existing cables during construction. The panelists also suggested building ducts alongside new roads to create dedicated pathways for future fibre optic cables.

Beyond policy changes, ATCON urged the NCC to enforce existing regulations, specifically the one outlined in the Nigeria National Broadband Plan 2020-2025. This plan mandates the NCC to assign a desk officer in each state to oversee fibre networks, potentially minimizing disruptions during construction activities.

While these solutions offer a path forward, the panelists expressed concern about past inaction. They emphasized the need for concrete steps and a commitment from the government to address these long-standing challenges. The industry’s growth and Nigeria’s digital future depend on a collaborative effort to protect and maintain this critical infrastructure.