Lagos begins standard compliance regulation of telecom infrastructure

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…NCC Decries Prevention Of Mast Installations By Communities
Poised to arrest illegal erection of masts on buildings, Lagos Infrastructure Maintenance and Regulatory Agency (LASIMRA) is embarking on a state wide regulatory inspection and standards compliance audit of telecommunication infrastructure in the state.

The General Manager and Chief Executive Officer of the Agency, Babajide Odekunle, who disclosed this yesterday while briefing newsmen in his office, said the exercise is also geared towards ensuring development of urban infrastructure in the construction and operation of telecommunications infrastructure deployed by operators in the state,

He stressed that the exercise, which starts next month would enable them develop a comprehensive database of telecom cell sites, including towers, masts and other appurtenances to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of regulatory oversight.

He disclosed that the agency has already commenced operations by removing about 95 masts and towers abandoned or did not comply with guidelines around Ikeja and environs, whilst a task force named “ Zero Tolerance on Non –Compliant Masts and Towers in Lagos Island” has been set up with the responsibility of combing the entire length and breadth of Lagos Island to discover substandard as well as illegal or unpermitted masts and towers.

While regretting the death of citizens in the building collapse of July 25 in Lagos Island caused by illegal erection of mast, Odekunle said the agency has apprehended the operators of the mast, saying they did not approve it.

Meanwhile, the Nigerian Communications Commission, (NCC), has decried the prevention of telecom mast installations by the public over reports that it is dangerous to health. NCC worried that the development was hindering several communities from being connected.

The Deputy Director, Consumer Affairs Bureau, Mr. Ismail Adedigba, pleaded with the public to allow installations of telecom masts in their areas, insisting that the masts are not dangerous.