The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Kano State Command, has issued a strong warning to construction companies, contractors, road developers, and property developers operating in Kano to desist from tampering with or damaging fibre-optic cables and other critical national infrastructure during excavation and construction activities.
SC Ibrahim Idris Abdullahi, the Command’s spokesperson, on behalf of the State Commandant. Mohammed Hassan Agalama, in a statement expressed serious concern over the increasing cases of accidental and, in some instances, negligent destruction of underground fibre-optic cables across the state.
He noted that such incidents have led to major disruptions in telecommunication services, internet connectivity, banking operations, and other essential services relied upon by residents and businesses.
According to the Command, contractors must obtain all necessary approvals and right-of-way clearance before commencing excavation work.
They are also advised to liaise with relevant utility service providers to properly identify and map underground fibre routes.
Additionally, construction firms are urged to ensure the presence of technical representatives of telecom operators during major excavation projects and to adopt modern equipment and best practices to avoid damaging critical infrastructure.
The NSCDC reiterated that fibre-optic cables and telecommunication installations are designated as Critical National Assets and Infrastructure (CNAI) and are protected by law.
It warned that any individual or corporate body found culpable of willful destruction, negligence, or sabotage would be arrested and prosecuted accordingly.
The Command further stated that it would intensify surveillance, monitoring, and enforcement operations across construction sites in Kano State to ensure strict compliance with regulations.
The NSCDC Kano Command also called on stakeholders, community members, and service providers to promptly report any suspicious activities or unauthorized excavation near fibre routes to the nearest Civil Defence office.
