Presidential order designates telecom infrastructure as critical infrastructure - Maida

The Presidential Order recently signed by President Bola Tinubu, designating all telecom infrastructure as Critical National Information Infrastructure, serves as a safety net for vital telecom assets across the country. Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Dr. Aminu Maida, stated this at a recent workshop.

He explained that the presidential order would protect telecommunication assets from vandalism, theft, and fiber cuts by construction companies.

In July, the president signed the Presidential Order, drawing from the powers granted under the Cybercrimes Act of 2024, to designate what may be categorized as Critical National Information Infrastructure.

Dr. Maida emphasized the importance of protecting telecommunication infrastructure in the country, noting that “no sector of national life is left out of the digital transformation conversation. It impacts all of us.”

He highlighted that telecommunication infrastructure has increasingly suffered disruptions due to extensive damage from vandalism and theft, fiber cuts by construction companies, and restricted access, preventing operators from servicing critical infrastructure.

Maida assured that, with the signing of the Presidential Order, the NCC will be empowered to address issues such as vandalism, illegal tampering, and restricted access to communications infrastructure.

“With this Presidential Order, Nigeria now has a comprehensive policy framework to protect vital telecommunication assets—from base stations and data centres to fiber optic cables.

“This framework strengthens our ability to decisively confront issues such as vandalism, illegal tampering, and preventing access to communications infrastructure, holding violators accountable to deter future offenses.

“Under this Order, individuals, organizations, or even government agencies are prohibited from sealing, removing, or damaging telecommunications infrastructure without a lawful court order,” he said.

He made it known that the Presidential Order became a reality through the continuous advocacy of the NCC and collaboration with key stakeholders, including the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the Federal Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy.

“The industry has long called for special protections to be accorded to these assets to ensure continuous connectivity and reliable communication services.

“This pivotal advancement for our industry was achieved through the NCC’s proactive advocacy and strategic collaboration with key stakeholders, including the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the Federal Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy,” he said.