The Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON) has issued a critical warning regarding a looming crisis in the telecom sector due to a strike by Petroleum Tanker Drivers, a subgroup of the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers.
The strike, which has halted the movement of fuel, has led to severe shortages of diesel, impacting telecom operations nationwide.
ATCON President, Tony Emoekpere, revealed on Sunday that this disruption is placing telecom base stations in a precarious situation, with many on the brink of shutting down. He warned that millions of mobile and internet users could be severely affected.
“The strike is a result of ongoing issues between tanker drivers and police officers in Lagos, and it has brought fuel supply operations to a complete standstill,” Emoekpere explained.
The shortage of diesel is putting telecom infrastructure at risk, with critical sites left with dangerously low fuel supplies. If no immediate measures are taken, the country could face widespread network failures, severely affecting communication, business activities, and emergency services.
ATCON is calling for immediate intervention from the governments of Lagos and Ogun states to ensure diesel supplies are restored to telecom operators. Emoekpere emphasised the urgency of the situation, stating that it poses a national threat.
“This is not just a matter for telecom companies. The entire nation is at risk of significant disruptions to its economy and public services,” he added.
The association has also appealed to security forces and petroleum unions to swiftly resolve the dispute, aiming to safeguard Nigeria’s telecom services and overall economic stability.
ATCON concluded by stressing the far-reaching consequences of a prolonged diesel shortage for the telecom industry, warning that it could lead to major disruptions in both personal and business communications.
