Outrage in Festac as Telecom Mast Plan Threatens Children’s Safe Playground
Plans to install a telecommunications mast at 23 Road, Q Close Field in Festac Town are raising fresh concerns, particularly around child safety and community well-being. While improved connectivity by providers is important, residents are questioning the implications of siting such infrastructure within a residential area where children frequently gather.
The field in question serves as a key recreational space for children, supporting their physical activity, social interaction, and overall development. Its potential conversion into a restricted site could limit access to safe play areas, forcing children into less secure environments. From a safeguarding perspective, access to safe and supervised spaces is critical for healthy childhood development.
Health concerns have also been raised. Telecommunications masts emit radiofrequency radiation, and although the World Health Organization maintains that regulated exposure is not proven to be harmful, uncertainty around long-term effects continues to worry parents, particularly for younger children.
Beyond this, the presence of construction activities, heavy equipment, and ongoing maintenance operations introduces safety risks. Without proper controls, children living nearby may be exposed to hazards such as injuries or accidents. Noise from generators and increased human activity may also disrupt children’s routines and well-being.
The Nigerian Communications Commission has established guidelines for mast siting, including minimum distances from residential areas. However, residents are calling for greater transparency around the approval process and whether community consultation took place.
As discussions continue, stakeholders are being urged to ensure that development decisions prioritise child safety alongside infrastructure needs.
