The National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, has cautioned state governments against shutting down telecommunications sites over revenue or local disputes, warning that such actions pose a serious threat to Nigeria’s digital transformation and economic growth.
Represented by Enebong Effiom, Director of Critical National Assets and Infrastructure Protection at the ONSA, Ribadu issued the warning on Wednesday in Abuja during a Business Roundtable on Improving Investments in Broadband Connectivity and Safeguarding Critical National Infrastructure.
He noted that arbitrary closures of telecom sites, multiple taxation, and inconsistent right-of-way (RoW) charges were among the major obstacles slowing down broadband expansion across the country.
“In addition to right-of-way issues, some states have resorted to generating revenue through their internal security systems—consulting figures and shutting down sites arbitrarily. We have had to intervene several times,” Ribadu said. “These actions must stop because state security units often do not realise that they are damaging their own economic prospects and limiting development opportunities.”
He emphasised that broadband infrastructure should be recognised as critical national assets, not ordinary commercial ventures.
“In the near future, digital transformation will become the benchmark for development. States that prioritise broadband access will thrive, while those that neglect it will lag behind,” Ribadu stated.
The NSA revealed that Nigeria’s broadband penetration currently stands at about 40 per cent, far below the 70 per cent target of the National Broadband Plan (2020–2025).
Citing research, he explained that every 10 per cent increase in broadband penetration could raise national GDP by 2.6–3.8 per cent, meaning that short-term revenue drives by states could be undermining long-term economic growth.
He urged states to adopt uniform, investor-friendly right-of-way policies, protect fibre infrastructure from vandalism, and engage local communities in safeguarding telecom assets.
Earlier in July 2025, Ekeibidun reported that the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) had renewed calls for the harmonisation of taxes and levies within the telecom sector, warning that excessive fiscal pressures were stifling the industry’s potential.
Also speaking, Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) and Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, reaffirmed the commitment of state governments to supporting broadband development and protecting telecom assets nationwide.
Represented by NGF Director-General, Dr Abdulateef Shittu, AbdulRazaq described broadband as the backbone of Nigeria’s digital and economic future, powering both innovation and inclusion.
“Broadband connectivity is essential infrastructure. It drives the digital economy, which now contributes over half of Nigeria’s GDP,” he said, adding that the NGF had already streamlined RoW processes in several states.
On infrastructure protection, he noted that states were enhancing security networks, engaging vigilante groups, and collaborating with community leaders to combat vandalism and ensure real-time intelligence sharing.
The Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Dr Aminu Maida, also appealed to states to standardise their RoW policies and prioritise infrastructure protection to fast-track broadband access.
“Connectivity is now synonymous with economic inclusion, productivity, and national resilience,” Maida said, adding that as of August 2025, broadband penetration stood at 48.81 per cent, with over 140 million Nigerians online.
He noted that through consistent advocacy, collaboration with the ONSA and the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, the Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII) Presidential Order was signed by President Bola Tinubu in June 2024, mandating stronger protection for telecom assets.
Maida commended states that had reduced or eliminated RoW fees. “In the past two years, five additional states—Adamawa, Bauchi, Enugu, Benue, and Zamfara—have waived RoW charges entirely, bringing the total to 11 states, while 17 states have capped the rate at ₦145 per metre,” he said.
However, he raised concern over rising vandalism, noting that between January and August 2025, there were 19,384 fibre cuts, 3,241 equipment thefts, and over 19,000 denials of site access, causing widespread network disruptions and economic losses.
“Every governor holds a critical lever. Eliminating RoW charges, protecting telecom assets, and encouraging fibre deployment can either accelerate or hinder your state’s development,” Maida urged.
He announced that the NCC would soon launch two major tools — the Ease of Doing Business Portal, a one-stop information platform for all 36 states and the FCT, and the Nigeria Digital Connectivity Index, which will annually rank states by their digital readiness and competitiveness.
The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to working with states, private investors, and partners to drive broadband expansion and safeguard national infrastructure.
Represented by Mohammed Ali, Director of Home Finance at the ministry, Edun said Nigeria’s future growth depends on the strength of its digital infrastructure.
“To achieve that vision, we must build resilience, ensure adequate funding, and foster collaboration among all stakeholders,” he stated. “Our progress depends on embracing innovation and finding smarter, connected ways of doing business.”
