The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Edo State Command, has issued a firm warning to contractors and utility companies: damage to fibre optic infrastructure during construction and civil works will now be treated as a serious criminal offense.
State Commandant Saidi Akintayo delivered the warning at a press conference in Benin City on Wednesday, emphasizing that strict protective measures must be adhered to by all contractors and utility firms. Failure to comply will result in prosecution.
Akintayo expressed concern over the rising number of incidents involving cable damage resulting from excavation and road construction projects throughout the state. He stated that telecommunications fibre networks are now officially designated as Critical National Information Infrastructure under federal regulations, thereby elevating their protection status and increasing the legal consequences for any violations.
“The destruction of fibre infrastructure, whether deliberate or accidental, will no longer be treated as a minor incident,” Akintayo stated emphatically. “It is a serious offense with legal consequences.”
He explained that fibre optic systems are the foundation of Nigeria’s digital economy, facilitating secure communications, financial transactions, emergency response coordination, and vital government operations. Any disruption to these systems, he warned, could undermine national security, public safety, and economic stability.
Akintayo noted that this directive is in line with guidance from the Office of the National Security Adviser, which has prioritized the protection of national digital assets amidst ongoing infrastructure development across the country.
The NSCDC Commandant urged all contractors and project handlers to conduct thorough site assessments and coordinate with relevant authorities before commencing any excavation work to prevent accidental damage. Negligence or failure to comply with established procedures will attract legal sanctions.
Akintayo reaffirmed the NSCDC’s commitment to increased monitoring and enforcement, making it clear that the days of treating fibre optic cable damage as routine construction mishaps are over.
“With the growing importance of digital connectivity to national security and economic survival, protecting fibre infrastructure is no longer optional; it is mandatory,” Akintayo concluded.