Nigeria is taking steps to make it a crime to damage broadband fiber cables following complaints from major telecommunications companies like MTN Nigeria Communications Plc. The Works Ministry, overseeing federal road construction, is finalizing regulations, which are expected to become law through an executive order signed by President Bola Tinubu.
While laws against vandalism exist, authorities aim to increase scrutiny of construction firms and impose harsh penalties on offenders through the forthcoming executive order. The move comes as the Association of Telecommunications Companies presses for such measures to protect investments and infrastructure crucial for Nigeria’s economy.
Telecom assets are vital for various sectors of the economy, and damages to cables have cost the sector nearly N27 billion ($23 million) in repairs and revenue losses last year alone. MTN Nigeria, the largest wireless operator, faced over 6,000 cable cuts in 2023, leading to significant service disruptions. The industry eagerly awaits the presidential order to curb such vandalism and encourage further investment.
Source: PUNCH