The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) have called on citizens to play an active role in safeguarding the country’s telecom infrastructure, describing it as a critical national asset vital to economic growth, security, and daily life.
Speaking during a joint stakeholders’ forum in Abuja on Wednesday, NCC Executive Vice Chairman, Dr. Aminu Maida, stressed that telecom infrastructure forms the backbone of digital services, banking, security communications, and emergency response systems. He warned that vandalism, theft of equipment, and destruction of fibre-optic cables not only disrupt connectivity but also threaten national security.
“Telecom masts, fibre cables, and data centres are not just industry assets; they are lifelines for our economy, healthcare, education, and governance. Any damage to them is a direct blow to national development,” Maida said.
Representing the National Security Adviser, Rear Admiral (Rtd) Emmanuel Ogalla, a senior ONSA official, said securing telecommunications facilities requires a collaborative approach between government agencies, service providers, and the public. He urged communities to report suspicious activities around telecom installations to security agencies promptly.
The NSA’s office also revealed plans to strengthen surveillance of critical infrastructure through advanced monitoring technologies and closer coordination with the police and other security forces.
The forum brought together representatives from telecom companies, civil society, security agencies, and community leaders, who pledged to create awareness at the grassroots about the importance of protecting these assets.
Both the NCC and ONSA emphasised that public vigilance and swift reporting of threats could prevent prolonged service disruptions and enhance national resilience in the face of emerging security challenges.
