The Federal Government has unveiled plans to integrate Nigeria’s riverine communities into the wider economy through expanded telecommunications coverage and the promotion of their cultural heritage as a tourism attraction.
Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, announced that all riverine communities would be connected to telecommunications networks before mid-2027.
Tijani said 3,700 telecommunications facilities were being installed in rural communities nationwide, with Obighoro-Ogheye in Delta State among the starting points. He added that the network in the area would be flagged off in October.
Speaking at the Bini Riva Live cultural festival in Obighoro, Warri North, Tijani said the initiative was part of President Bola Tinubu’s mandate to connect every part of the country and strengthen the national economy through improved communications infrastructure.
Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, said the government would also use the cultural heritage of riverine communities to attract tourists. She announced that the Bini Riva Live festival would be included in her ministry’s annual calendar from January to December.
Musawa also encouraged residents of riverine communities to intensify fishing activities and develop the sector to international standards as part of efforts to expand their economic opportunities.
The national leader of Obighoro community, Dr Godwin Ebosa, commended the Federal Government’s interest in the socioeconomic development of riverine communities and pledged residents’ support for initiatives aimed at improving their economic and social wellbeing.
