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The Nigerian government is gearing up to take tough action against individuals and organizations that damage or tamper with telecom infrastructure. This follows a directive issued by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in July 2024, classifying all telecom assets as Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII). The order introduces strict penalties for anyone found guilty of vandalizing or interfering with these assets.
To prepare for the enforcement of this directive, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the National Judicial Institute (NJI) organized a workshop in Lagos for judges and justices. The goal was to help them understand the new law and how to apply it in court.
Protecting Telecom Infrastructure
Dr. Aminu Maida, the Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, emphasized the importance of telecom infrastructure in supporting Nigeria’s digital economy. He explained that the new law aims to address recurring issues like vandalism, theft, and unauthorized tampering with telecom equipment.
“We can’t build a digital economy without protecting the infrastructure that powers it,” Maida said. “This order ensures that those who damage or interfere with telecom assets will face serious consequences.”
The directive also prohibits any individual, organization, or government agency from tampering with telecom infrastructure without proper legal authorization.
Tackling Longstanding Issues
Dr. Maida highlighted ongoing challenges, such as fibre cuts during construction work and restricted access to telecom sites, which have disrupted services for years. He called for collaboration among stakeholders to ensure the smooth implementation of the new rules.
The Office of the National Security Adviser has already begun consultations to enforce the order, with violators expected to be brought to court soon.
Judiciary’s Role in Implementation
The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon. Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, represented by Supreme Court Justice Jummai Sankey, stressed the importance of protecting telecom infrastructure. She noted that the judiciary plays a key role in resolving disputes and enforcing digital rights.
“The misuse of consumer data and security risks in the digital space require stronger legal protections,” she said. The Chief Justice also commended the NCC for its efforts to safeguard consumers from unfair practices by telecom operators.
With this new law, the government aims to ensure reliable connectivity, protect critical infrastructure, and strengthen Nigeria’s digital economy. Vandals and offenders are now on notice: the era of unchecked telecom disruptions is over.
