Telecommunications operators in Lagos State have reported significant losses amounting to ₦5 billion in 2024, attributed to over 2,500 fibre cuts across the state. This alarming revelation was made during the 7th edition of the Policy Implementation Assisted Forum (PIAFo), themed “Strengthening Protection of Critical Information Infrastructure through Proactive Implementation and Strategic Coordination.”
The high-risk zones for fibre cuts include Ikeja, Lekki, and Victoria Island, where road expansions, private developments, and illegal excavations frequently disrupt buried fibre cables. Mainland and Alimosho Local Government Areas have also been identified as hotspots for fibre cable theft and vandalism.
The recurring fibre cuts are attributed to poor urban planning, lack of coordination among regulatory bodies, and overlapping mandates. These incidents have led to widespread service disruptions, economic losses, consumer frustration, and security concerns. The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has guidelines recognizing telecom infrastructure as critical, but operators argue that stricter enforcement and preventive measures are urgently needed.
Stakeholders at the forum emphasised the need for a centralised regulatory framework, real-time monitoring, and stricter penalties for unauthorised disruptions. They also advocated for a Fibre Protection Framework and legal compensation mechanisms to safeguard telecom investments.
Jude Ighomena, Senior Manager at Broadbased Communications, stated, “The time to act is now! Continuous disruptions threaten financial stability, business operations, and public trust.”
