In light of recent undersea cable disruptions that have affected connectivity in several countries in the West African region, Nigeria has called for a coordinated and multilateral approach by the region to safeguard shared telecommunications infrastructure and enhance connectivity to ensure uninterrupted services.
Dr. Aminu Maida, the Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), emphasized the need for a collaborative effort to protect critical telecom infrastructure and diversify connectivity during his address at the 21st West Africa Telecommunications Regulatory Assembly (WATRA) Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in Freetown, Sierra Leone from March 19th to 22nd, 2024.
Dr. Maida highlighted the recent submarine cable cuts that led to widespread outages in 12 African countries, underscoring the importance of establishing mechanisms to prevent damage to submarine infrastructure and its impact on the region.
He referenced a report by Cloudflare, an IT service management firm, which revealed ongoing outages in six countries, including four West African nations, due to the cable cuts.
Securing telecom infrastructure is crucial for attracting Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and building investor confidence in the West African subregion.
The reliability and resilience of telecommunications networks play a significant role in attracting investment, driving economic growth, and enhancing global competitiveness.
By ensuring the security of these assets, the region can create a conducive environment for sustainable economic development.
Dr. Maida proposed the establishment of a framework for joint monitoring, risk mitigation, and emergency response procedures for submarine cables passing through the sub-region.
He recommended expanding the mandate of the WATRA Working Group on Infrastructure to develop a comprehensive strategy for safeguarding telecommunications networks and infrastructure, enhancing resilience, and improving disaster response protocols.
The WATRA Assembly, established in 2002, serves as a platform for national telecommunication regulatory authorities in 16 member states to promote regulations that encourage investment in telecommunication infrastructure, delivering affordable, accessible, faster, and secure communication services to citizens.
During the AGM, discussions focused on enhancing accessible and affordable telecommunication services in the sub-region, including consumer protection, quality of service, roaming, and conflict resolution.
Engr. Yusuf Aliyu Aboki of Nigeria was reelected as Executive Secretary for a second term, with members praising his leadership and achievements in advancing the organization’s strategic goals.
Dr. Maida commended Engr. Aboki for his visionary leadership and urged him to continue building partnerships and collaboration to further the interests of WATRA and the sub-region.
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