The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Zone A, has petitioned the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) over the prolonged internet blackout in Zamfara North Senatorial District.
In an open letter signed by Abdulrazak Bello Kaura, Zonal Secretary of NUJ Zone A, the union said telecom operators — MTN, Airtel, and Glo — had cut off internet services in Birnin Magaji, Kaura Namoda, Shinkafi, and Zurmi local government areas for more than three months without explanation.
The affected areas, with a population of over 1.7 million, host major educational and commercial institutions including the Federal Polytechnic Kaura Namoda, Shinkafi Market, and Kasuwar Daji International Market. The NUJ noted that the blackout has crippled businesses, disrupted learning, and pushed many youths into joblessness and migration.
“This situation risks worsening insecurity as idle youths become vulnerable to criminal recruitment and radicalization,” Kaura warned.
The union urged the NCC to compel operators to restore internet services immediately, compensate affected subscribers, and ensure advance notification of any future disruptions.
“Zamfara North cannot be left behind in the digital economy while the rest of the country advances,” the NUJ said.
