BY NECHI NAECHE-ESEZOBOR: The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), in partnership with the Lagos State Infrastructure Maintenance and Regulatory Agency (LASIMRA) and the Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON), has begun a statewide telecom infrastructure sanitation initiative in Lagos.
The exercise is designed to clean up improperly installed telecommunications facilities and ensure better protection of Critical National Information Infrastructure across the state.
The first phase of the operation took place along Toyin Street in Ikeja and nearby areas, where officials discovered widespread cases of poorly arranged fibre optic cables.
Many of the cables were seen loosely suspended on fences, utility poles, drainage systems, and in some cases left lying directly on the ground.
Some of the exposed lines were still active and dangerously close to pedestrian movement, raising concerns about safety risks and environmental disorder.
The NCC said the initiative is part of a broader national effort to improve telecom infrastructure management and enhance quality of service for consumers.
The Commission also expressed concern over the poor installation practices observed in some parts of Lagos, noting that such conditions make infrastructure vulnerable to damage and service disruption.
LASIMRA, on its part, described the exercise as part of its balanced regulatory approach, which combines enforcement with engagement to ensure compliance.
The agency stressed that improper deployment of telecom infrastructure affects service quality, public safety, and the overall appearance of the urban environment.
Operators have been given a window, through ATCON, to correct identified issues before enforcement measures are fully applied.
ATCON said the exercise reflects the industry’s commitment to improving environmental standards and supporting a more organised and efficient telecom ecosystem in Lagos.
Telecom operators and infrastructure providers, including major industry players, participated in the exercise and expressed support for the initiative.
The cleanup drive is expected to continue across other parts of Lagos as regulators and stakeholders work to improve infrastructure standards, safety, and service reliability.
