NCC, NSCDC Warn Contractors Over Damage to Fibre Optic Infrastructure

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) have cautioned construction firms, contractors, and other stakeholders against damaging fibre optic cables during road construction and related civil works, warning that such incidents will now attract prosecution.

NCC 2026 PRESS RELEASE No. 2

The agencies said the growing number of fibre cuts caused by poor coordination and negligence would no longer be tolerated, stressing that offenders would be held accountable under existing laws.

They described fibre optic infrastructure as a critical national asset that supports Nigeria’s digital economy, emergency services, business operations, and government communications. According to them, damage to these facilities—whether accidental or deliberate—poses serious risks to public safety, economic activities, and national security.

The NCC and NSCDC explained that under the Designation and Protection of Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII) Order 2024, telecommunications fibre networks are officially classified as Critical National Information Infrastructure. As a result, any damage arising from unauthorised excavation, construction activities, or failure to coordinate with relevant authorities constitutes a criminal offence.

They further warned that individuals, construction companies, and government contractors responsible for damaging fibre infrastructure would face prosecution and other sanctions as provided under applicable laws, including the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act 2015.

The agencies urged federal, state, and local government bodies, road contractors, utility providers, and private developers to take preventive steps by verifying fibre routes before construction, engaging telecom operators and regulators ahead of excavation, following approved right-of-way guidelines, and promptly reporting any accidental damage to enable quick intervention.