Telecom theft surges as 656 generators and batteries are stolen from sites in 2025
The heartbeat of Nigeria’s digital economy is under a quiet but relentless siege. According to the latest data from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), telecommunications operators are facing a staggering rise in the theft of critical power assets. In 2025 alone, 656 vital components—specifically 152 generators and 504 batteries—were carted away from telecom sites across the country.
For many of us who rely on our mobile phones for everything from banking to business and staying in touch with loved ones, this isn’t just a corporate loss; it’s a direct hit on the quality of service we experience every day.
When a base station loses its power source, the surrounding community enters a connectivity blackout, stalling economic activities and compromising security.
The escalating cost of vandalism and its impact on network quality
This wave of theft is not showing any signs of slowing down as we move into 2026. In just the first two months of this year, another 81 power assets have already been stolen.
What makes this trend even more alarming is the sheer variety of equipment targeted. Beyond the heavy generators, criminals are after cables and diesel at an unprecedented rate. For instance, cable theft incidents in January and February of 2026 have more than doubled compared to the same period last year.
Each of these incidents forces operators to divert billions of naira from network expansion and technological upgrades just to replace what was stolen. For the average subscriber, this translates to dropped calls, slow internet speeds, and frustrating downtime that could have been avoided.
Regional hotspots and the struggle to protect critical infrastructure
While the entire nation feels the pinch, some states have become major flashpoints for these attacks. Regions such as Lagos, Ogun, Delta, Rivers, and the FCT are currently recording the highest number of incidents.
The Chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), Engr. Gbenga Adebayo, has rightly pointed out that these acts of sabotage are a “cog in the wheel of progress.” Despite the Federal Government officially designating telecom infrastructure as “Critical National Information Infrastructure” through a presidential gazette in 2024, the level of protection on the ground remains insufficient.
The backbone of our digital life is being picked apart, leaving operators in a difficult position where they must invest heavily in private security to safeguard assets that should ideally be protected by national security agencies.
The road ahead: Moving from policy to proactive protection
The recurring nature of these thefts suggests that we need to move beyond just signing laws and into the realm of strict enforcement.
The NCC and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) have recently threatened to prosecute anyone—including construction firms responsible for damaging or stealing infrastructure. However, experts suggest that operators must also “up their game” by deploying more advanced, tech-driven security measures at base stations.
As Nigeria becomes increasingly dependent on digital connectivity for commerce and public services, the stakes could not be higher. Protecting our telecom assets is no longer just a business necessity for MTN, Airtel, or Glo; it is a matter of national economic survival and public safety.
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