Stakeholders Raise Alarm Over Rising Cases of Fibre Cuts in Nigeria
Nigeria’s telecommunications industry is facing a worrying surge in infrastructure damage, with the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) reporting an average of over 1,100 fibre cuts weekly across major networks. The Commission disclosed this during the Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII) and Sustainability Conference held in Lagos, where the Executive Vice Chairman, Dr. Aminu Maida, underscored the severity of the issue.
According to Dr. Maida, leading operators—including MTN, Airtel, and 9mobile—have been severely affected by the rising incidents of fibre vandalism, which are now a key contributor to network disruptions nationwide. Industry experts have warned that these acts of sabotage are not just attacks on infrastructure, but “crimes against progress,” given their impact on businesses, emergency services, and national connectivity.
The NCC has reiterated its commitment to working with security agencies, state governments, and industry players to curb vandalism and protect telecom assets. As Nigeria expands its digital footprint, the protection of telecom infrastructure remains essential to maintaining service quality, economic productivity, and digital inclusion.
IHS Nigeria Reaffirms Commitment to Sustainable Telecom Infrastructure
IHS Nigeria has reiterated its dedication to promoting sustainability and environmental stewardship in the telecom sector. Speaking at the Sustainability Table Discourse Series (STS) in Lagos, themed “Sustainability in Action: Scaling the Impact of a Thriving Future to Achieve the SDGs,” the company highlighted its initiatives aimed at building a greener and more inclusive future.
Representing the company’s Senior Vice President and COO, Kazeem Oladepo, the Director of Government and External Relations, Gimba Mohammed, noted that IHS Nigeria continues to integrate innovation, circular economy models, and social responsibility into its operations. He emphasized that collective action across industries is crucial for achieving Nigeria’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The event provided a platform for policymakers, corporate leaders, and stakeholders to share best practices that align with global sustainability standards. IHS Nigeria reaffirmed that through sustained investment in renewable energy and community development, it remains committed to shaping a telecom industry that is both resilient and environmentally responsible.
Vitel Wireless Launches Nigeria’s First eSIMs, Redefining Connectivity
In a bold step toward next-generation connectivity, Vitel Wireless Limited, a second-level GSM operator licensed by the NCC, has launched Nigeria’s first eSIM service. The launch event, themed “Blue is Here,” introduced a range of new products including eSIMs, traditional SIMs, and smart connectivity solutions tailored to both individual and enterprise users.
Vitel Wireless Chairman and CEO, Engr. Kenneth Nwabueze, said the innovation embodies the company’s philosophy—“Everything Connected.” He explained that the eSIM rollout would redefine mobile experiences by integrating IoT-enabled devices, AI-driven logistics, and smart safety technologies to enhance user convenience and national security.
“Vitel is not just a telecom company,” Nwabueze said. “We are building a smarter, safer, and more connected Nigeria—bridging technology and humanity.” With this launch, Vitel Wireless positions itself as a pioneer in digital transformation, setting the pace for how Nigerians connect and communicate in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
MTN Rwanda Unveils AI Tool ‘Ms. Baza’ to Deepen Digital Inclusion
At the Mobile World Congress in Kigali, MTN Rwanda introduced Ms. Baza, an AI-powered virtual assistant designed to enhance access to digital services and promote inclusion across Rwanda’s diverse population. The tool forms part of MTN’s broader strategy to bridge digital divides through innovative and user-friendly technology.
Ms. Baza supports multiple languages—including English, French, Kinyarwanda, and Kiswahili—making it accessible to users across different literacy levels. According to MTN Rwanda CEO, Ali Monzer, the virtual assistant will “simplify access to services such as mobile finance, online learning, and digital health, while ensuring responsible and inclusive AI design.”
Though still in its prototype phase, Ms. Baza is expected to launch fully in the coming months. The innovation underscores MTN’s commitment to using technology to empower citizens, enhance digital literacy, and strengthen Africa’s participation in the global digital economy.
