Federal Ministries Establish Joint Committee to Tackle Telecoms Fiber Cuts and Vandalism
New Initiative Aims to Protect Critical Digital Infrastructure
The Federal Ministry of Works (FMoW) and Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy (FMoCIDE) have taken a significant step to address Nigeria’s persistent fiber optic cable damage issues by forming a Joint Standing Committee on the Protection of Fiber Optic Cables.
Committee Inauguration and Mandate
The committee was officially inaugurated on February 18th at the FMoW headquarters, with Permanent Secretaries Engr. Olufunso Adebiyi (FMoW) and Engr. Farouk Yusuf (FMoCIDE) presiding. The event was attended by NCC Executive Vice Chairman Dr. Aminu Maida.
The committee’s primary objectives include:
- Establishing clear communication channels between ministries and NCC
- Preventing damage to fiber optic cables during road projects
- Developing standard engagement processes for all stakeholders
Addressing a Critical National Issue
Engr. Adebiyi emphasized the committee’s role in coordinating fiber protection before, during, and after road construction. “We will ensure fiber placement is considered in road network planning and design, including provision of ducts,” he stated.
Engr. Yusuf highlighted the economic importance of fiber networks, calling them “the backbone of Nigeria’s digital economy” that enable essential broadband services nationwide.
The Scale of the Problem
Dr. Maida revealed alarming statistics: “Last year, we experienced over 50,000 fiber cuts incidents, with about 30,000 attributed to road construction activities.” He cited the February 2024 nationwide MTN outage as a particularly severe example.
The NCC chief explained that lack of coordination between construction companies and telecom operators significantly contributes to the problem. He expressed optimism that the committee’s work would:
- Reduce network outages
- Lower repair costs
- Minimize need for redundant routes
- Allow operators to focus on network expansion
Moving Forward
The committee will work closely with Federal Controllers of Works and telecom operators on all current and future projects. It will also develop instant communication mechanisms for prompt information sharing among stakeholders.
This initiative represents a crucial step in protecting Nigeria’s digital infrastructure and ensuring uninterrupted telecommunications services for all citizens.
Credit: Nigerian Tribune