By 
The Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON) has raised urgent concerns over a potential network shutdown in Lagos and Ogun States due to a critical diesel shortage.
RELATED: Bridging the Gap: ATCON’s strategic stakeholders meeting paves the way for ICT synergy in Nigeria
The crisis, which could disrupt mobile and internet services for millions of Nigerians, stems from an indefinite strike by Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD) under the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG). The strike has severely disrupted fuel distribution, leaving telecom base stations with dwindling diesel reserves.
Strike leaves critical telecom infrastructure extremely vulnerable
ATCON President Tony Emoekpere issued a stark warning, emphasizing the gravity of the situation.
“This strike, triggered by the persistent harassment of tanker drivers by the police in Lagos, has completely halted fuel deliveries, leaving our critical telecom infrastructure extremely vulnerable,” he said.
“If urgent measures are not taken, we could witness a full-scale blackout that would impact mobile and internet services, disrupt business and financial transactions, and cripple emergency communication systems.”
The potential shutdown threatens not only day-to-day connectivity but also the broader economic stability and public safety in the region.
Lagos and Ogun State governments need to intervene
‘ATCON is calling on the Lagos and Ogun State governments to intervene immediately to restore diesel supply. The association also urged security agencies and petroleum unions to resolve the dispute swiftly and ensure uninterrupted fuel delivery to telecom operators.
“This is a national emergency that endangers economic activities and public safety,” Emoekpere stressed.
“We must act now to protect Nigeria’s connectivity and ensure that our digital economy remains robust.”
Industry experts warn that the diesel shortage could have far-reaching consequences, exacerbating an already challenging economic environment. With telecommunications serving as a backbone for Nigeria’s digital transformation and economic growth, any disruption could hinder critical services across various sectors.
This pressing situation has drawn significant attention from stakeholders across Nigeria’s telecom and public sectors, underscoring the urgent need for coordinated government action to prevent a widespread communication crisis.
