Urgent Call for Improved Internet Services in Nigeria
Nigerians across the country are grappling with daily frustrations stemming from poor internet connectivity, an issue that even the Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Idris Olorunnimbe, has not been immune to. Recently, Olorunnimbe relayed a significant encounter with his 9-year-old daughter that showcased the depth of this problem.
A Daughter's Frustration
Shortly after his appointment, Olorunnimbe's daughter approached him looking unusually serious and declared, "Mr. NCC Chairman, the Internet is not working!" This poignant statement reflects the growing impatience among users of all ages who expect seamless internet access.
The situation is compounded by the fact that many Nigerians are spending considerable amounts on bandwidth that vanishes as soon as they attempt to connect. With frustrations radiating throughout the nation, complaints have become widespread, yet actionable solutions remain elusive.
Industry Challenges Highlighted
Ironically, Olorunnimbe shared his daughter’s story while the Association of Licensed Telecom Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) was voicing their own grievances regarding the state of telecommunications. Chairman Engr. Gbenga Adebayo emphasized that the indiscriminate actions of contractors who have damaged over 540 kilometers of vital fiber optic cables pose a major threat to network reliability.
- Contractors often commence road projects without informing telecom operators, despite the latter having paid Right-of-Way fees.
- Adebayo warned that damaging critical infrastructure affects not just internet services, but also banking, education, and healthcare systems.
Calls for Accountability
Olorunnimbe recognized the ongoing vulnerabilities within the telecom sector and acknowledged the need for accountability. He stated, "If networks go down, everything stops," highlighting that essential services rely on stable connectivity. He promised that contractors who damage telecom infrastructure would face consequences.
Future Actions and Realities
Olorunnimbe committed to escalating enforcement discussions with both sub-national governments and the presidency, aiming to ensure that protections for Critical National Infrastructure (CNI) translate into real-world safeguards. He stressed that policies should enforce responsibility for negligence or deliberate damage to infrastructure, ensuring swift action and consequences.
Despite these assurances, the demand for dependable internet services remains pressing. Users continue to face disrupted WhatsApp calls, dwindling mobile data, and frozen content on streaming platforms. As highlighted by Olorunnimbe's daughter, the reality is clear: for many Nigerians, the Internet is still not working.