Abuja: The Ministry of Works and the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy have called for preventive measures to curb fibre optic cable cuts in the country. They also emphasized the need for stronger coordination among road contractors, telecommunications operators, and relevant government agencies to prevent damage to fibre optic infrastructure during road construction.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Works, Mr. Rafiu Adeladan, made the call during a Stakeholders’ Workshop on the Protection of Fibre Optic Infrastructure in Abuja. Adeladan highlighted the critical role of telecommunications infrastructure in supporting various sectors such as governance, commerce, education, healthcare, and security in Nigeria. He warned that damage to fibre optic cables could have widespread implications beyond immediate physical damage.
Adeladan stressed the necessity for a stronger institutional framework for coordination and information sharing among stakeholders. He urged road contractors and relevant agencies to access accurate information on the location of telecommunications infrastructure before commencing excavation activities. By moving from a reactive approach to a preventive one, stakeholders can integrate prevention into project planning and execution, thus reducing the risk of cable damage.
The Permanent Secretary also pointed out the economic and social implications of fibre optic cable cuts, which could disrupt digital services, reduce productivity, and cause financial losses. He praised the inclusion of various stakeholders, including government institutions, telecommunications operators, and the police, in the discussions, assuring them of the Ministry’s commitment to cooperation.
Earlier, Nadungu Gagare, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, emphasized that protecting telecommunications infrastructure is a shared national responsibility. Represented by Stanley Musa, Director of Telecoms and Postal Services, Gagare stated that fibre optic infrastructure is essential for economic growth and social inclusion. He noted that safeguarding these assets aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Gagare highlighted the ongoing challenges posed by fibre cuts during road construction, which undermine investments in broadband infrastructure and disrupt essential services. To address these issues, a Standing Committee on the Protection of Fibre Optic Infrastructure has been established to promote collaboration and compliance with standards.
He further noted that a memorandum on the harmonization of Right-of-Way charges has been approved by the National Economic Council, directing the development of standards for shared infrastructure. The workshop serves as a platform for stakeholders to exchange ideas and develop solutions to strengthen infrastructure resilience and support broadband expansion.
Gagare called for deepened institutional collaboration to protect the infrastructure critical for Nigeria’s digital future, underscoring the importance of resilient digital connectivity for sustainable national development.