ALTON: 16000 Telco sites could shut down due to diesel depots blockage
The Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) has raised the alarm over possible nationwide disruptions in mobile and internet services due to the blockade of diesel depots by petroleum union members.
In a statement on Thursday, ALTON Chairman Gbenga Adebayo confirmed that credible reports indicated that members of the Nigerian Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) and the Natural Oil and Gas Suppliers Association of Nigeria (NOGASA) had restricted access to diesel depots in Kaduna, Lagos, and Delta states.
The action has halted diesel distribution to over 16,000 telecom sites operated by IHS Towers—an ALTON member and a major telecom infrastructure provider—posing a threat to critical sectors, including banking, emergency services, and national security.
“While ALTON does not interfere in disputes between its members and third parties, we are gravely concerned about the wider implications of this action on national infrastructure and public safety,” Adebayo said.
“Telecom infrastructure is officially classified as Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII) under Nigerian law. Any disruption to its operation constitutes a serious threat to national security and economic stability and will attract strict legal consequences.”
The blockade is reportedly linked to a dispute over alleged diesel misappropriation involving two NOGASA-affiliated companies currently under investigation by IHS.
ALTON has appealed to NUPENG and NOGASA to resolve the matter through lawful means. “We trust that NUPENG and NOGASA will continue to uphold the values of supporting national development without jeopardising essential services,” Adebayo added.
The association also urged the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), and other relevant agencies to intervene urgently to avert a looming communications blackout.
