Nigerian telecom companies are sounding the alarm as network outages intensify across the country, and it’s not just about bad weather or power supply. The real culprit? Vandalism. According to a recent report, a staggering 445 incidents of vandalism were recorded by telcos within a short span, dealing a massive blow to infrastructure and service quality. This troubling spike has disrupted voice and data services in several regions, with many users expressing frustration over dropped calls, delayed messages, and sluggish internet.
The most affected areas are rural and semi-urban zones, where telecom infrastructure like base stations, fibre cables, and power units have been repeatedly targeted. These acts range from the theft of diesel and batteries to outright destruction of fibre optics — crippling the capacity of network providers to maintain stable connections. The Association of Licensed Telecom Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) warns that if this continues, the digital economy and financial services that rely on real-time data could face serious setbacks.
While telcos are calling for stronger community collaboration, tighter government protection, and swift prosecution of offenders, the impact is already being felt nationwide. As Nigeria works to expand its digital infrastructure, vandalism now stands as a major obstacle to affordable and reliable connectivity. Without urgent action, the dream of a fully connected Nigeria may continue to suffer needless delays and deeper costs.
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