Internet Blackout in Zamfara North: Residents Appeal to NCC for Urgent Intervention
Byline: By Safiyat Muhammed
Internet Blackout in Zamfara North: Residents Appeal to NCC for Urgent Intervention
Residents of Zamfara North Senatorial District have raised alarm over a three-month-long internet blackout that has cut them off from essential digital services. They are now appealing to the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) for urgent intervention to restore connectivity.
The blackout, which has affected major telecom service providers MTN, Airtel, and Glo, has left subscribers in total digital darkness without any official explanation.
In an open letter addressed to the NCC’s Chief Executive, community leaders described the situation as “disturbing and dangerous,” stressing that it has crippled businesses, education, and innovation across the zone.
Over 1.78 Million Residents Affected
The affected senatorial district covers Birnin Magaji, Kaura Namoda, Shinkafi, and Zurmi local government areas, with a combined population of over 1.78 million people.
The letter noted that the blackout has particularly harmed talented youths, students, and entrepreneurs whose livelihoods depend on internet-based services.
Zamfara North is home to the Federal Polytechnic Kaura Namoda, several other educational institutions, and major commercial hubs such as Shinkafi market and Kasuwar Daji international market — both of which attract investors and traders from within and outside Nigeria.
Economic and Security Risks
Community leaders warned that shutting down internet services in such a strategic environment has paralysed commerce, disrupted learning, and forced many young people into joblessness and migration.
The open letter cautioned that idle youths in the region could become more vulnerable to criminal recruitment, radicalisation, and other social vices if connectivity is not restored.
“By denying over 1.7 million people access to internet services, we risk compounding Nigeria’s already fragile socio-economic and security challenges,” the letter read.
Call to Action
Residents emphasised that Zamfara North is one of Nigeria’s fastest-growing regions, and cutting it off from the digital economy is a major setback. They urged the NCC to act swiftly to restore trust, safeguard the future, and uphold its mandate as a regulator serving the people.
The Bureau News will continue monitoring developments and provide updates on Nigeria News Today as stakeholders press for urgent solutions.
