FG Plans Telecoms Coverage for Riverine Communities by 2027

Nigeria is set to bridge its digital divide by connecting all riverine communities to telecommunications networks by mid-2027. Dr. Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, announced this ambitious goal during the Grand Finale of the Bini Riva Live festival in Obighoro, Delta State.

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It is important that we ensure that we connect every part of this country, including the riverine communities. And as God will have it, President Bola Tinubu has approved for my ministry to ensure that every part of this country is connected.

The initiative stems from a directive by President Bola Tinubu, who has tasked the ministry with ensuring that every part of the country, including remote riverine areas, gains access to telecommunications. Minister Tijani emphasized that this connectivity is crucial for boosting economic activities in these regions. "It is important that we ensure that we connect every part of this country, including the riverine communities," he stated.

As part of the plan, 3,700 base stations will be installed across rural communities nationwide, with a specific flag-off ceremony scheduled for October in Obighoro – Ogheye. "Before mid-next year, all riverine communities in Nigeria will not only be connected to the rest of the country, but will be connected to the rest of the world at large," Tijani assured.

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Before mid-next year, all riverine communities in Nigeria will not only be connected to the rest of the country, but will be connected to the rest of the world at large.

Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, who was also present, highlighted plans to integrate the Bini Riva Live cultural festival into the national calendar to attract tourism. She also encouraged intensified fishing activities to elevate the industry to international standards. Dr. Godwin Ebosa, national leader of the Obighoro community, commended the government's focus on the socioeconomic development of riverine areas and pledged the community's support.

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These are communities based in the area that is giving so much to our economy, and we believe there is no money expended on this infrastructure that is not justifiable. Mr. President has given us the mandate that we must ensure how the national economy can be further boosted through effective communications, and that if the mandate is not achievable, we should let him know.