In a bid to tackle the persistent issue of fiber optic cuts and damages caused by road construction and rehabilitation activities, the Federal Ministry of Works (FMoW) and the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy (FMoCIDE) have established a Joint Standing Committee on the Protection of Fiber Optic Cables.
The committee, inaugurated on February 18, aims to establish clear communication channels between the two ministries and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to prevent damage to fiber optic cables during road construction.
This move is crucial, as fiber networks are the backbone of Nigeria’s digital economy, enabling seamless delivery of broadband services essential for nationwide connectivity, economic growth, and technological innovation.
Fiber optic cable damage has significant consequences for Nigeria, impacting the country’s economy, telecommunications sector, and citizens. The damage often results from road construction and rehabilitation activities, vandalism, and accidental cuts.
According to Engr. Olufunso Adebiyi, Permanent Secretary of the FMoW, the committee will develop modalities to reduce damage to fiber optic cables, establish standard engagement processes, and share monthly performance reports.
The committee will also work closely with Federal Controllers of Works and telecom operators to protect fiber optic cables during road construction.
The NCC’s Executive Vice Chairman/CEO, Dr. Aminu Maida, emphasized the significance of the committee’s mandate, citing the over 50,000 fiber cuts incidents in 2024, with around 30,000 attributed to road construction activities.
He expressed optimism that the committee’s work will lead to a significant reduction in fiber cuts, reducing network outages and unnecessary expenditure on repair works.
This initiative is a welcome step towards addressing the challenges faced by Nigeria’s telecommunications industry, and its success will have a positive impact on the country’s digital economy and citizens.
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