NCC, NSCDC to crack down on perpetrators of fibre–optic cable damage

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) have issued a stern warning to individuals and companies involved in road construction and civil works to avoid damaging fibre.

In a joint statement, the NCC and NSCDC emphasized that fibre-optic cables are critical national assets powering Nigeria’s digital economy, enabling seamless communication, supporting emergency services, connecting businesses, and facilitating government operations.

The organisations highlighted that destruction of fibre-optic cables, whether through negligence or willful actions, poses a direct threat to national security, economic stability, and public safety.

They cited the Designation and Protection of Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII) Order 2024, which classifies telecommunication fibre infrastructure as Critical National Information Infrastructure.

Any damage resulting from unauthorized digging, construction activities, or failure to collaborate with relevant authorities will be considered a criminal offence, attracting prosecution and applicable sanctions under existing laws, including the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act 2015.

The NCC and NSCDC warned that individuals, construction companies, or government contractors who damage fibre-optic infrastructure will face strict legal consequences.

They urged federal, state, and local government agencies, road construction companies, utility service providers, and private developers to ensure full compliance with guidelines.

The organisations called for pre-construction verification of fibre routes, collaboration with the NCC, telecom operators, and NSCDC before and during construction, adherence to approved guidelines, and immediate reporting of any accidental damage.