NCC, NSCDC Warn Construction Firms Against Fibre- Optic Cable Damage

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) have issued a strong warning to construction companies, contractors, and other stakeholders over the rising incidents of fibre-optic cable damage during road construction and civil engineering activities across the country.

In a joint statement issued at the weekend, the two agencies described fibre-optic infrastructure as a critical national asset and cautioned that negligence leading to its damage will no longer be tolerated.

They stressed that offenders risk prosecution as such acts now constitute criminal offences under existing laws.

According to the NCC and NSCDC, fibre-optic cables are central to Nigeria’s digital economy, supporting communication networks, emergency services, business operations, and government functions.

They warned that frequent and avoidable fibre cuts pose serious threats to national security, economic stability, and public safety.

The agencies noted that under the Designation and Protection of Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII) Order 2024, telecommunication fibre infrastructure has been classified as Critical National Information Infrastructure.

As a result, any damage arising from unauthorized excavation, construction activities, or failure to coordinate with relevant authorities is deemed a criminal act.

They further stated that individuals, construction firms, or government contractors found culpable will face prosecution and applicable sanctions as provided under laws such as the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act 2015.

The NCC and NSCDC warned that future incidents linked to road construction, excavation, or civil works carried out without proper consultation with network operators and regulators would attract strict legal consequences.

The agencies urged federal, state, and local government authorities, road construction companies, utility providers, and private developers to comply fully with established guidelines.

These include conducting pre-construction verification of fibre routes, collaborating with the NCC, telecom operators, and NSCDC before and during construction, and adhering to approved excavation and right-of-way procedures.

They also called for the immediate reporting of any accidental fibre damage to enable swift response and minimize service disruptions.

Members of the public were encouraged to report acts of fibre-optic infrastructure sabotage or damage to the nearest NSCDC office or through designated communication channels.