Quest FM TV News – Millions of Nigerians across nine states were left cut off earlier this summer after widespread mobile and internet outages linked to the growing menace of infrastructure vandalism.
Telecom regulators confirmed that the disruptions were not due to technical faults, but rather deliberate acts of destruction targeting critical communication facilities. From militant groups seeking to cripple communications to thieves stealing cables, diesel, and generators, the problem has escalated into a national security and economic concern.
Operators warn the situation could worsen as Nigeria’s economic crisis deepens. The rising wave of vandalism and cable theft is not only crippling connectivity but also inflating the costs of maintenance and repairs. In many cases, restoring damaged networks has taken days, leaving businesses and individuals struggling without essential digital services.
Experts further note a troubling trend: as more Nigerians turn to solar energy due to erratic electricity supply, stolen batteries from telecom substations are increasingly being resold or repurposed to power private homes. This black-market demand has made telecom infrastructure a prime target for thieves.
Industry stakeholders caution that without decisive intervention—including stronger security around telecom assets, harsher penalties for vandals, and urgent government support—the cycle of sabotage and service interruption will continue to threaten Nigeria’s digital economy.
With telecommunications serving as the backbone of modern commerce, education, and security, the stakes, analysts say, could not be higher.
Report by: Kalu Divine | Edited by: Chris Odjomah