Dr. Aminu Maida, the CEO of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), has emphasized the critical need for judicial support in safeguarding the nation’s telecommunications infrastructure. Speaking at the 2024 Annual Workshop for Judges on Legal and Regulatory Issues in the Communications Industry, hosted in Lagos, Maida addressed the growing threat of vandalism, theft, and restricted access that continually disrupts telecom services. This event, a collaboration between the NCC and the National Judicial Institute, served as a platform to underscore the vital role of legal enforcement in protecting telecom assets.
Highlighting recent advancements, Maida pointed to the Presidential Order signed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in July 2024, which designates all telecommunications infrastructure as “Critical National Information Infrastructure.” Enabled by the Cybercrimes Act of 2024, this designation is a major step in securing key telecom facilities, from data centers to fiber optic cables, against unauthorized interference. The NCC, in coordination with the Office of the National Security Adviser and the Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy, played a central role in advocating for this legislative milestone.
Under the new framework, tampering with or damaging telecom infrastructure without a court order is now prohibited. The protections are expected to shield critical assets from unlawful actions, providing operators and the public with greater security and continuity of service. Maida stressed that judicial understanding of these regulations will be crucial, as courts may occasionally be asked to grant exceptions. He urged judges to use careful discretion, recognizing the broader impact of telecom infrastructure on national stability and economic growth.
The NCC CEO expressed optimism that the judiciary’s increased awareness of these protections will lead to firm penalties for violators, sending a strong message to deter future offenses. The workshop, he noted, was an essential opportunity to bring judges and regulatory leaders together in a shared commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s digital transformation journey.
