THE Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON) has raised the alarm over a potential network blackout in Lagos and Ogun states due to a worsening diesel supply crisis.
The disruption stems from an indefinite strike by the Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD), a branch of the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG). The strike, triggered by alleged harassment of tanker drivers by police officers in Lagos, has halted truck loading operations and fuel distribution, severely affecting diesel supply to telecom infrastructure.
ATCON President, Mr Tony Emoekpere, in a statement, warned that prolonged fuel shortages are pushing several telecom base stations toward shutdown, posing a major risk to millions of mobile and internet users in the region.
“This strike has effectively halted all truck loading operations and fuel movements. As a result, diesel supply to telecom infrastructure has been severely impacted, leaving critical sites dangerously low on fuel,” Emoekpere explained.
He cautioned that if urgent action is not taken, the situation could escalate into a full-blown network blackout, affecting businesses, public services, and communication.
ATCON is urging the governors of Lagos and Ogun states to intervene by facilitating the immediate release of diesel from depots to telecom operators.
“This is not just a telecom issue—it is a national emergency that could cripple economic activities and compromise public safety,” Emoekpere stressed.
The association also called on security agencies and petroleum unions to resolve the crisis swiftly to safeguard Nigeria’s connectivity and economic stability.
Eighteen-Eleven Media