The Managing Director of the Edo Information and Communications Technology Agency (EdoICTA), Eghosa Urhoghide, has called for stronger collaboration among governments, telecommunications operators, regulators and host communities to curb the persistent damage to Nigeria’s fiber-optic infrastructure.
Urhoghide made the call on Monday during a session on Technical Standards and Infrastructure Resilience at the Fibre-to-the-Home (FTTH) 2026 Forum in Benin, where industry stakeholders examined strategies for strengthening the country’s broadband infrastructure.
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He said improved cooperation among key players is critical to achieving sustainable broadband expansion, warning that poor deployment standards continue to undermine investments in digital infrastructure. “If you are going to invest in infrastructure, invest properly so it is sustainable,” Urhoghide said.
According to him, the frequent fiber cuts that disrupt internet services and slow broadband rollout can be drastically reduced through better coordination between government agencies, telecom operators, regulators and host communities.
Drawing from Edo State’s experience, Urhoghide explained that the government has established a coordination mechanism that keeps telecommunications operators informed before and during road construction projects.
He said the arrangement allows underground fiber cables to be identified and protected before excavation begins, significantly reducing accidental damage to critical infrastructure.
The EdoICTA chief noted that the initiative underscores the importance of sustained collaboration among ministries responsible for works, road maintenance agencies, ICT institutions and telecommunications companies.
He also stressed the need for fiber-optic cables to be installed at approved depths and in strict compliance with engineering standards, warning that substandard installations leave networks vulnerable to repeated damage during construction activities.
Urhoghide argued that investing in resilient infrastructure from the outset is far more cost-effective than repeatedly repairing damaged networks, adding that it would guarantee the long-term sustainability of broadband infrastructure.
He further urged regulators to tighten enforcement of technical standards while promoting stronger cooperation across the telecommunications ecosystem.
According to him, achieving Nigeria’s broadband penetration targets will depend not only on expanding fiber networks but also on safeguarding existing investments through proper planning, industry collaboration and strict adherence to technical standards.
Urhoghide said Edo State’s approach aligns with the digital transformation agenda of Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration, with EdoICTA leading initiatives aimed at expanding digital connectivity and strengthening critical ICT infrastructure across the state.
, Eghosa Urhoghide, has called for stronger collaboration among governments, telecommunications operators, regulators and host communities to curb the persistent damage to Nigeria's fiber-optic infrastructure.){kind=link}