20120908
AP
MAIDUGURI, Nigeria (AP) — An association of mobile phone companies says at least 24 towers have been attacked across Nigeria's north, likely causing damage worth millions of dollars.

Gbenga Adebayo, chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria, said Thursday that nine members have reported infrastructural damage over the last 24 hours.

Experts say a tower costs about $450,000 and with antennas, generators and transmission equipment, the cost of a single tower can exceed $1 million.

An Associated Press reporter saw at least nine masts burned down in the northeastern city of Maiduguri. AP reporters in other parts of the north saw 10 other damaged masts.

Army spokesman Sagir Musa blamed a radical Islamist sect known as Boko Haram. Months ago Boko Haram threatened to target phone companies for collaborating with authorities.