NCC Urges Nigerian Students to Protect Telecom Infrastructure as Critical National Assets

The Nigerian Communications Commission has called on Nigerian students to take an active role in protecting telecommunications infrastructure across the country, describing such facilities as critical national assets that support education, innovation, economic growth and digital connectivity.

The Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, made the appeal during a courtesy and familiarisation visit by the newly elected leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students to the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja.

Represented by the Director of Public Affairs, Mrs. Nnenna Ukoha, Maida congratulated the newly elected NANS President, Comrade Akinteye Babatunde, and members of the association’s executive council on their emergence while commending the smooth transition in the leadership of the student body.

The NCC boss identified vandalism of telecommunications facilities, theft of fibre optic cables and network equipment, destruction of infrastructure, and right-of-way challenges as major factors affecting quality service delivery across the country.

He urged NANS to support ongoing awareness campaigns by sensitising students on the importance of safeguarding telecommunications infrastructure within and outside educational institutions.

“Telecommunications infrastructure remains the backbone of Nigeria’s digital economy and plays a crucial role in learning, research, innovation and communication. Students can support national efforts aimed at protecting telecommunications infrastructure through awareness and responsible civic engagement,” Maida said.

The NCC chief also highlighted several initiatives being implemented by the Commission to deepen digital inclusion for young Nigerians, including the deployment of digital infrastructure through the Universal Service Provision Fund, establishment of Digital Parks in tertiary institutions, and ongoing efforts to support digital learning and innovation.

He further disclosed that the Commission is consulting stakeholders on a proposed framework that may enable access to certain approved educational platforms under specific conditions without data charges.

On consumer protection, Maida reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to safeguarding telecommunications consumers and encouraged students to utilise consumer education resources on the NCC’s website to better understand data management, consumer rights and complaint resolution procedures.

Earlier, NANS President Comrade Akinteye Babatunde commended the NCC for sustaining a productive and mutually beneficial relationship with the student body over the years and for fostering a culture of dialogue and stakeholder engagement.