The Emergency Telecommunications Cluster (ETC) Nigeria Situation Report for September 2025 outlines critical advancements in communications infrastructure supporting humanitarian operations in the country’s northeast. Led by the Ministry of Communications and co-managed by the World Food Programme (WFP), the ETS continues to play a vital role in enabling aid workers to operate safely and efficiently in conflict-affected regions, particularly Borno and Yobe states. These areas remain at the heart of Nigeria’s protection crisis, where reliable telecommunications are not just a convenience but a lifeline for coordination, security, and service delivery.
During the reporting period, ETS deployed new connectivity solutions across key humanitarian hubs, significantly improving internet access and communication reliability for field teams. These upgrades are essential for real-time data sharing, emergency response coordination, and maintaining contact between field offices and headquarters. The deployment also included enhancements to existing infrastructure, ensuring that services remain resilient in the face of ongoing security threats and environmental challenges. In addition to technical improvements, ETS conducted targeted training sessions for local staff and humanitarian personnel, equipping them with the skills needed to manage and maintain telecom systems independently. This focus on capacity building is central to ETS’s long-term strategy of fostering local ownership and sustainability.
Coordination among partners remained strong throughout the month, with regular meetings held to align operational strategies, share updates, and address emerging challenges. ETS continues to work closely with national authorities, UN agencies, and non-governmental organizations to expand coverage and adapt services to the evolving needs on the ground. However, security concerns persist, with restricted access and damaged infrastructure posing significant obstacles to service continuity. These challenges underscore the importance of flexible, mobile solutions that can be rapidly deployed in volatile environments.
Looking ahead, ETS plans to scale up its activities by introducing mobile connectivity units capable of reaching remote and underserved areas. The cluster is also exploring renewable energy options to power telecom equipment, aiming to reduce reliance on fuel-based generators and align with global sustainability goals. These innovations are expected to enhance the resilience of communications infrastructure and ensure uninterrupted service delivery, even in the most challenging conditions.
The September 2025 report reflects steady progress in strengthening the backbone of humanitarian coordination in Nigeria. Through strategic partnerships, technical innovation, and a commitment to local empowerment, ETS continues to provide essential support to responders working in some of the country’s most vulnerable communities. In a region where every message can mean the difference between safety and danger, the importance of reliable telecommunications cannot be overstated.