…says meeting, a vital step toward strengthening Fibre-Optic Infrastructure Protection.
Awka, Nigeria — The iNews Times | Fibre-Optic Infrastructure Protection has taken centre stage in Anambra State as the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Anambra State Command, convened a strategic engagement meeting with construction companies, contractors, and other stakeholders over rising incidents of fibre-optic cable damage during road construction across the state.
The meeting, which took place at the State Command Headquarters in Awka on Wednesday, was convened in compliance with a directive from the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) through the NSCDC National Headquarters.
Delivering his opening remarks, Commandant Maku Olatunde, State Commandant of NSCDC Anambra State Command, 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. He cautioned that negligence leading to its damage will no longer be tolerated.
He highlighted the strategic importance of telecom assets, calling for vigilance, regulatory compliance, and cooperation between construction companies and telecommunication providers to prevent disruptions and losses.
According to him, fibre-optic cables are central to Nigeria’s digital economy, supporting communication networks, business operations, government functions, and emergency services. He warned that frequent and avoidable fibre cuts pose serious threats to public safety, national security, and economic stability, further underscoring the urgency of Fibre-Optic Infrastructure Protection.
The NSCDC State boss added that, in most cases, the destruction or vandalism of fibre-optic cables occurs during road construction projects where excavations are carried out without prior consultation, proper verification of underground facilities, or collaboration with telecommunication providers and the NSCDC.
He stressed that any damage arising from unauthorized excavation, construction activities, or failure to coordinate with relevant authorities is deemed a criminal act, and anyone found culpable will face prosecution and applicable sanctions as provided under existing laws.
Commandant Maku urged all stakeholders to collaborate effectively in safeguarding these strategic assets, describing the meeting as a vital step toward strengthening Fibre-Optic Infrastructure Protection and building resilience in the telecommunications sector.
In his contribution, Engr. Dr. Opara Emeka, the Federal Controller of Works, Federal Ministry of Works, Anambra State, frowned at the attitude of some telecommunication operators who fail to follow due process in laying fibre-optic cables. He noted their neglect in furnishing his office with fibre-optic routes and non-adherence to approved excavation and right-of-way procedures.
The meeting featured discussions on improving coordination, information sharing, and enforcement of regulations to protect underground fibre installations. Stakeholders agreed to hold regular meetings and adopt preventive measures to minimize infrastructure damage during road construction.
Participants described the engagement as productive, marking a significant step toward enhancing infrastructure protection and sustaining digital connectivity in Anambra State.
The meeting also yielded key resolutions, including the prompt implementation of the “Call Before You Dig” protocol for all excavation projects statewide, the establishment of a unified notification and response system, the development of practical guidelines for fibre-optic cable management, and strengthened collaboration among stakeholders.
Key participants included the Controller, Federal Ministry of Works, Anambra State; senior representatives from mobile network operators such as T2 Mobile (formerly 9mobile) and Airtel Nigeria; professional bodies including the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) and the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE); state government officials; and representatives of construction companies operating in Anambra State.
