Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, has issued a strong warning to state governments over the shutdown of telecommunications infrastructure during revenue disputes, describing the practice as a threat to national security and economic development.

Speaking through Enebong Effiom, Director of Critical National Assets and Infrastructure Protection, at a broadband investment roundtable in Abuja on Wednesday, Ribadu criticized arbitrary site closures, overlapping taxes, and inconsistent right-of-way fees, which he said are stalling the rollout of critical infrastructure.

“Broadband facilities are not mere businesses; they are critical national assets,” Ribadu said, urging states to prioritize long-term digital growth over short-term revenue gains. He noted that Nigeria’s broadband penetration stood at 48 percent as of August—well below the 70 percent target set under the National Broadband Plan. Studies show that every 10 percent increase in broadband access can boost GDP by up to 3.8 percent.

The event, themed “Improving Investments in Broadband Connectivity and Safeguarding Critical National Infrastructure,” brought together governors, regulators, and private sector leaders to address mounting challenges in the telecom sector.

Nigeria Governors’ Forum Chairman AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, represented by Director-General Abdulateef Shittu, pledged support for the broadband initiative, calling it “the backbone of our social and economic future.” He highlighted ongoing efforts to harmonize right-of-way policies, strengthen local security, and establish dispute resolution frameworks.

Nigerian Communications Commission Executive Vice Chairman Aminu Maida reported progress, noting that 11 states now waive right-of-way fees, while 17 cap them at ₦145 per meter. However, vandalism remains rampant: between January and August, operators recorded 19,384 fiber cuts, 3,241 equipment thefts, and over 19,000 site access denials.

Maida announced the launch of a new Ease of Doing Business portal and a Digital Connectivity Index to rank states on infrastructure readiness.