*The Nigerian Communications Commission restates its commitment to protection of telecoms infrastructure in line with the Presidential Order that criminalises vandalism, theft, or obstruction of Critical National Information Infrastructure in the West African country

Gbenga Kayode | 绿帽献妻

In accordance with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Executive Order (EO) on safeguarding the Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII), the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has restated its commitment to protection of telecoms infrastructure across the West African country.

绿帽献妻 reports President Tinubu’s Executive Order, signed June 2024, criminalises the vandalism, theft or obstruction of the Critical National Infrastructure with the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

It is noted that enforcement of the Executive Order provides a “solid legal framework” for protecting vital telecoms infrastructure while ensuring uninterrupted communication services.

A group photograph during the NUJ delegation’s visit to NCC, Abuja

The NCC has said its proactive implementation of the Presidential Order is to curb the growing incidence of vandalism at telecoms sites, a development that has continued affect the Mobile Network Operators’ (MNOs) Quality of Service (QoS) and consumers’ Quality of Experience across the country.

The telecoms sector regulatory Commission, therefore, reiterated its commitment to activating the EO during the recent courtesy visit by the Executive of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Chapter, to the NCC Corporate Headquarters Annex, at Mbora, in Abuja, FCT.

The NUJ delegation was comprised of key Executives, and media team members, agency report said.

Speaking during the visit of the FCT NUJ Executive to the Commission, Dr. Aminu Maida, Executive Vice-Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (EVC/CEO) of the Commission, affirmed the industry regulator’s resolve to apply the Order.

Maida: NCC will apply full weight of the law against telecoms vandals

Dr. Maida, represented by Mrs. Nnenna Ukoha, Head of Public Affairs at NCC, restated: 鈥淧resident Tinubu signed the Executive Order on 24th June 2024, declaring telecom infrastructure as Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII).

“The NCC is now mandated to implement this order fully, and anyone found tampering with these facilities will face the full weight of the law.鈥�

The Executive Vice Chairman and CEO noted the NCC has launched a nationwide awareness campaign to sensitise the public about the significance of protecting critical national infrastructure.

According to NCC, such crucial national assets include telecoms, energy, and transport facilities, among others.

Expressing concern over the seemingly ceaseless damage to telecoms infrastructure, Maida lamented: “The destruction of fibre cables, theft of generators and fuel, and removal of key components from telecoms base stations have become all too common.

鈥淭hese acts directly affect the Quality of Service that millions of Nigerians depend on.鈥�

3 Factors undermining quality service delivery, by NCC

In identifying the key factors fuelling the menace of theft of critical national assets, and destruction of telecoms infrastructure in particular, the NCC said, 鈥渨e are witnessing frequent attacks on telecoms sites.

“These lead to service outages and cost operators billions in repairs.鈥�

On restricted site access, the Commission said: 鈥淥perators face obstruction from local communities, touts and even some government officials who demand levies, making it difficult to access sites for maintenance and refuelling.鈥�

In regard to road construction damage, the NCC stated that 鈥渙ngoing road projects often result in accidental damage to underground fibre cables, further compounding the situation.鈥�

Measures to address data depletion, Internet connectivity issues

In respect of the lingering data depletion, and alleged data theft by network providers, the Commission clarified that 鈥淢obile Network Operators do not steal users鈥� data.”

It stated: 鈥淲hat many people experience is due to automatic app updates, background processes, and hotspots being shared unknowingly.鈥�

As regard what telecoms consumers should do to conserve data, Ukoha as well urged subscribers to be proactive.

The NCC said: 鈥淲e encourage consumers to review their phone settings, limit background data, turn off auto-play videos, and regularly change hotspot passwords.鈥�

Appreciating the media as the Fourth Estate of the Realm, the Commission lauded the industry professionals.

The telecoms regulator reaffirmed that 鈥渏ournalists play a vital role in educating the public.

“We appreciate your efforts and urge continued partnership in disseminating accurate, impactful information.鈥�

On the Commission鈥檚 efforts at improving digital inclusion in the ecosystem, the NCC restated its commitment to supporting underserved communities with affordable Internet access.

It equally disclosed the commencement of specialised training for journalists, particularly Senior Editors in Lagos and Abuja respectively.

In terms of collaboration with the Nigerian Government agencies to reduce infrastructure damage, the Commission said: 鈥淎s construction projects expand nationwide, we must work together to prevent unnecessary damage to telecom assets.鈥�

Also speaking during the visit, Malam Yakubu Musa, Head of Corporate Communications at NCC, reinforced the importance of the media in the telecoms ecosystem.

Musa stated: 鈥淥ur partnership with the press is key to promoting transparency, building consumer trust, and supporting regulatory compliance.鈥�

In her remarks, Comrade Grace Ike, Chairman of NUJ FCT Chapter, applauded the NCC for its regulatory efforts and expressed interest in deeper collaboration.

Comrade Ike said: 鈥淲e look forward to partnering with the NCC on media training, expanding Internet access for journalists, and enhancing public awareness.

“We also seek your support for our forthcoming Press Week and capacity-building programmes.鈥�

She added: “The NUJ recognises the importance of digital tools in journalism.

“Equipping media professionals with access and knowledge will strengthen democratic engagement and promote good governance.鈥�

The Union reiterated its commitment to working closely with the NCC to promote national development in the country.

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