Nigerians could face communication hiccups as 16,000 cell sites risk shutdown over a diesel dispute, just as the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) has issued a warning about a looming national communications blackout following disruptions to the supply of diesel — a critical resource used to power telecommunications infrastructure across the country.
In a statement released today, ALTON revealed that members of the Nigerian Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) and the Natural Oil and Gas Suppliers Association of Nigeria (NOGASA) on Tuesday blocked access to key diesel loading depots in Kaduna, Lagos, and Koko in Delta State.
The action has prevented one of its major members, IHS Towers, from fueling thousands of cell sites, putting approximately 16,000 telecommunications sites at risk of shutdown.
ALTON Chairman, Engr. Gbenga Adebayo, said: “These sites are vital not only for mobile and internet services to millions of Nigerians but also support essential services such as banking, hospital systems, emergency services, and national security operations.”
The reported blockade follows an ongoing dispute linked to allegations by IHS Towers of diesel misappropriation involving two member companies of NOGASA — a matter currently under investigation by relevant authorities.
He emphasised that while ALTON does not interfere in disputes between third parties, it cannot ignore the broader threat this standoff poses to critical national infrastructure.
“We urge NUPENG and NOGASA to call their members to order and to resolve disputes through lawful processes.
“Telecom infrastructure has been officially designated as Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII) under Nigerian law, and any deliberate disruptions will attract serious legal consequences,” he said.
Meanwhile, ALTON called on the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), and other relevant authorities to urgently intervene before the situation escalates.
The association lauded the historic role NUPENG and NOGASA have played in national development but appealed for constructive dialogue to avoid jeopardising the services and lives that depend on the seamless functioning of the country’s digital infrastructure.
Consequently, ALTON reaffirmed its commitment to delivering resilient and reliable telecom services nationwide but warned that continued disruptions of this nature significantly threaten Nigeria’s digital and economic stability.
