The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) have issued a stern warning to construction firms, contractors, developers, and the public over the rising incidents of fibre-optic cable damage during road construction and civil engineering projects across the country.
Both agencies emphasised that such incidents—whether due to negligence, lack of coordination, or deliberate acts—will no longer be tolerated, and offenders face prosecution, fines, and other legal consequences.
In a joint statement by the Head, Public Affairs, NCC, Mrs. Nnenna Ukoha and National Public Relations Officer, NSCDC, ACC Babawale Afolabi, they described fibre-optic cables as critical national assets that power Nigeria’s digital economy, enable emergency services, connect businesses, and facilitate government operations. They warned that destruction of this infrastructure directly threatens national security, economic stability, and public safety.
“Under the Designation and Protection of Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII) Order 2024, telecommunication fibre infrastructure is classified as Critical National Information Infrastructure. Any damage resulting from unauthorized digging, construction activities, or failure to coordinate with relevant authorities constitutes a criminal offence,” the agencies said.
The NCC and NSCDC stressed that individuals, construction companies, government contractors, and developers who violate these rules will face prosecution under applicable laws, including the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act 2015.
The statement outlined preventive measures for compliance, including pre-construction verification of fibre routes, collaboration with network operators and regulatory authorities before and during construction, strict adherence to excavation and right-of-way guidelines, and prompt reporting of accidental damage to facilitate rapid response and mitigation.
Members of the public were urged to report any sabotage or damage to fibre-optic infrastructure to the nearest NSCDC office, via email to protect@ncc.gov.ng or cipu@nscdc.gov.ng, or through the toll-free line 622.
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