Over 5,000 Fibre Cuts in Six Months: Expert Urges Local Protection for Telecom Infrastructure
More than 5,000 fibre-cut incidents were recorded across Nigeria in the first half of 2026, according to the Nigerian Communications Commission. An ICT expert has urged the Federal Government to involve and incentivise local security personnel to help protect vulnerable telecommunications infrastructure. He said damaged fibre cables can disrupt banking, businesses, startups, government services and emergency communications. The incidents are linked to both deliberate vandalism and accidental damage during road construction, excavation and other civil works. The expert recommended surveillance cameras, clearer markings for underground fibre routes and stronger public awareness. MTN Nigeria says it budgets about ₦7 billion yearly for fibre relocation and repairs linked to road expansion and related disruptions. The NCC has also called for closer coordination among telecom operators, contractors, regulators, security agencies and government ministries to prevent damage during road works.
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