The Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON) has issued an urgent warning over the risk of a network blackout in Lagos and Ogun States due to a severe diesel supply shortage.
This shortage stems from an indefinite strike by the Petroleum Tanker Drivers—a branch of the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers—which has brought truck loading operations and fuel movements to a standstill.
ATCON President Tony Emoekpere explained that persistent harassment of tanker drivers by police in Lagos State has effectively disrupted the diesel supply critical to operating telecom base stations. With many facilities now running dangerously low on fuel, he cautioned that the crisis could escalate into a full-blown blackout, potentially disrupting mobile and internet services, business operations, emergency response systems, and essential daily communications.
Emoekpere stressed that this issue is not merely a telecommunications problem but a national emergency that could cripple economic activities and compromise public safety. He called on the Governors of Lagos and Ogun States to intervene immediately by ensuring that diesel is promptly released from depots to telecom operators. Additionally, he urged security agencies and petroleum unions to resolve the crisis swiftly to safeguard Nigeria’s connectivity and overall economic stability.
