Stakeholders advocate measures to protect telecom infrastructure

Stakeholders in Nigeria’s telecommunications sector have called on the Federal Government to bolster the protection of the nation’s telecom infrastructure against cyber threats, vandalism and theft, emphasising its critical role in driving economic growth and digital transformation.

The appeal was made during a panel session, titled, “Protecting Critical National Infrastructure: Securing Nigeria’s Telecommunications Sector for Sustainable Growth” at the 30th Nigerian Economic Summit in Abuja.

The session, sponsored by IHS Towers, brought together key players, including the Association of Licensed Telecom Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).

In his remarks, Senior Vice President and Chief Corporate Services Officer of IHS Towers, Mr. Dapo Otunla, underscored the urgency of safeguarding telecom assets, which have been designated as Critical National Infrastructure (CNI).

According to Otunla, the protection of telecom facilities is vital to achieving the federal government’s digital economy objectives.

“Securing Nigeria’s telecommunications infrastructure is essential for fostering a sustainable digital economy,” Otunla said. “By collaborating, we can develop a robust Critical National Information Infrastructure Protection Plan (CNIPP) to shield our assets from vandalism, theft, and cyber threats. At IHS, we remain committed to leading efforts that secure the digital backbone of our nation.”

ALTON Chairman, Mr. Gbenga Adebayo, commended government’s designation of telecom infrastructure as ‘Critical National Infrastructure’ CNI through an executive order. However, he emphasized the need for a comprehensive implementation plan to achieve the desired outcomes.

“While the executive order is a commendable step, its effectiveness hinges on the development and execution of a comprehensive CNIPP,” Adebayo stated. “Our national digital ecosystem depends on secure and resilient telecom infrastructure.” He proposed the establishment of a centralised and up-to-date database of all telecom infrastructure across the country to enhance security and resilience.

The call for action aligns with the broader national agenda of creating a secure and sustainable digital future for Nigeria, as echoed by participants at the summit.

The panel attracted Managing Director, Knowledge Resources Limited, Mr Gerald Illukwe, as moderator; CEO e-Scape Technologies Limited, Mr Christopher Abhulime; CEO Galaxy Backbone, Prof Ibrahim Adeyanju; Assistant Commandant General, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Dr Benito EzeDeputy Director Compliance Monitoring & Enforcement, Isah Latinwo; Chairman, Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators (ALTON), Gbenga Adebayo and Managing Consultant, AKMS Consulting Limited, Mrs Amina Oyagbola.