The Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) has raised alarm over a potential shutdown of more than 16,000 telecom base stations.
This follows roadblocks by members of the Nigerian Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) and the Natural Oil and Gas Suppliers Association (NOGASA) at diesel loading depots in Kaduna, Lagos, and Delta states.
ALTON explained that the blockade has severely restricted diesel distribution, especially affecting infrastructure operated by IHS Towers, a major telecom infrastructure provider in Nigeria. Diesel is critical to powering telecom sites that keep mobile networks and internet services running across the country.
Engr. Gbenga Adebayo, ALTON’s Chairman, emphasized that these sites are essential for millions of Nigerians. Beyond mobile and internet access, they support services like banking transactions, hospital and emergency communications, and national security operations. The disruption risks not only public convenience but also economic and safety concerns.
The issue reportedly arose from diesel misappropriation allegations made by IHS against two NOGASA members, which is under official investigation. ALTON stressed it does not mediate such disputes but called on the groups involved to resolve the matter swiftly. They urged NUPENG and NOGASA leadership to allow unrestricted diesel supply access immediately.
ALTON also called for urgent intervention from the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), and other stakeholders to prevent a nationwide communications blackout. The association reminded all parties that telecom infrastructure is legally designated as Critical National Information Infrastructure, meaning deliberate disruption could have legal consequences.
