The Rivers State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has rolled out new measures focused at curbing the recurring damage to telecommunications infrastructure.
The rolled-out measures are targeting the fiber-optic cables, especially during construction activities across the state, says NSCDC State Command spokesperson Ihemnacho Umeado on Wednesday in a statement.
The initiative was made known during a stakeholders’ awareness meeting convened by the Command in line with directives from the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) to the Commandant-General of the Corps.
Speaking at the meeting, the state commandant, Joachin Okafor, warned contractors and construction firms involved in road projects to exercise due diligence before embarking on excavation works.
He stressed the need for proper consultation, verification, and coordination with relevant authorities to prevent avoidable damage to underground telecom assets.
Okafor noted that fiber-optic cables play a critical role in supporting communication systems across key sectors of the economy, adding that any disruption could have far-reaching implications for national security and economic stability.
He further cautioned that any unauthorized interference with telecom infrastructure would henceforth be treated as sabotage and vandalism, offenses punishable under existing laws.
The statement revealed that telecom operators, construction companies, and regulatory agencies, during the stakeholders meeting, shared concerns over repeated losses suffered due to careless excavation.
The stakeholders present highlighted preventive measures to curb the rise; improved communication and adherence to established procedures could curb the rising issue.
Significant adopted preventive strategies noted in the gathering include the mapping of underground telecom routes, joint verification of infrastructure before the commencement of major road works, and timely notification of service providers through the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).
Other participants at the meeting are representatives from government ministries, departments, and agencies; construction firms; telecom service providers, among others.
The NSCDC pledged to the protection of critical national assets and ensuring that all stakeholders comply with regulations designed to protect vital infrastructure in the state.
