The Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) has voiced its strong support for the Lagos State Infrastructure Maintenance and Regulatory Agency’s (LASIMRA) initiative to enumerate all telecommunication masts and towers across Lagos State.
In a statement released on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, ALTON emphasized its commitment to public safety, self-regulation, and responsible infrastructure management within the telecommunications industry.
“This project is vital for addressing public safety concerns raised by the Lagos State Government regarding abandoned communication towers,” stated Gbenga Adebayo, Chairman of ALTON. “It will deliver significant benefits to our industry and the broader public.”
ALTON highlighted the common misconception that all towers are operated by network providers. In reality, many are owned by broadcasting companies, government agencies, emergency services, financial institutions, and others. The enumeration will accurately identify and differentiate towers owned by telecom operators from those owned by other entities, enabling better regulatory oversight and improved infrastructure management.
“The primary objective of this exercise is to update the agency’s database with accurate and comprehensive information on all communications, telecoms, radio, television and security infrastructure within the state,” LASIMRA stated in their announcement. “This effort will not only enhance regulatory oversight but also ensure the safety and well-being of all residents by identifying and addressing any potential structural or environmental concerns associated with masts and towers.”
“The Lagos State Government has highlighted the need to address critical issues related to public safety, structural integrity, and the potential risks associated with abandoned towers,” Adebayo continued. “This enumeration exercise will help clearly identify and distinguish telecom operators’ towers from those owned by other entities, enabling better regulatory oversight, improved infrastructure management, and for further action by the Lagos State Planning authorities.”
ALTON also stressed its commitment to self-regulation and proactive risk management. “This initiative, endorsed by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and jointly sponsored by our members, demonstrates our commitment to self-regulation, proactive risk management, and safeguarding public interest,” said Gbolahan Awonuga, Executive Secretary of ALTON.
“By maintaining a robust and secure infrastructure in Lagos State and across the nation, we will strengthen industry-led solutions, enhance our reputation, and foster stronger relationships with regulators and stakeholders.”
LASIMRA further stated, “This initiative, which will be carried out in collaboration with the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), is expected to span a period of three months or more, effective 1st February 2025.”
The association believes this project will not only promote public safety and environmental sustainability but also ensure compliance with regulatory standards. ALTON envisions this initiative serving as a framework for similar projects in other major cities across Nigeria as they proceed to Phase 2.
“We call on all stakeholders to support this exercise, ensuring its success in the public interest and for the safety and well-being of all,” Adebayo concluded. “ALTON remains committed to working with Lagos State Government through LASIMRA and all relevant stakeholders to achieve these goals.”
ALTON’s proactive approach to infrastructure management and its commitment to public safety underscores the association’s role as a responsible and forward-thinking leader in the Nigerian telecommunications industry.