The Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON) has sounded an urgent alarm over a diesel supply crisis, warning that it could lead to a nationwide network blackout affecting millions of mobile and internet users.
The crisis stems from an ongoing strike by the Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD), a branch of the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), which has halted fuel deliveries, including diesel supplies to telecom base stations.
Telecom Infrastructure at Risk
In a statement on Sunday, ATCON President, Mr. Tony Emoekpere, revealed that the strike, triggered by the harassment of tanker drivers by police officers in Lagos, has disrupted truck loading operations, causing a severe diesel shortage at telecom infrastructure sites.
"This strike has severely impacted the supply of diesel to telecom base stations, leaving critical sites with dangerously low fuel levels," Emoekpere stated.
He warned that unless urgent action is taken, the disruption could lead to:
- Network blackouts across Nigeria
- Interrupted mobile and internet services
- Business disruptions
- Emergency service failures
- Severe economic impact
ATCON Calls for Immediate Government Intervention
The telecom body has urgently appealed to the governors of Lagos and Ogun states to intervene immediately by facilitating the release of diesel from depots to prevent a worsening crisis.
"This is not just a telecom issue—it is a national emergency that could cripple economic activities and compromise public safety," Emoekpere stressed.
ATCON is also calling on security agencies and petroleum unions to resolve the dispute swiftly, as continued fuel supply disruptions could have far-reaching consequences for businesses and individuals reliant on stable communication networks.
As tensions escalate, stakeholders fear that a prolonged telecom shutdown could significantly impact economic stability and public security, making quick resolution of the crisis a top priority.
