The Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, has announced that all riverine communities across Nigeria are expected to be connected to the telecommunications network before mid-2027

Tijani made the disclosure on Sunday in Obighoro, a riverine community in Warri North Local Government Area of Delta State, while addressing participants at the Grand Finale of the Bini Riva Live festival, according to The PUNCH.

The event was part of activities marking the fifth coronation anniversary of the Olu of Warri, His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III.

Tijani, who attended the event alongside the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, said President Bola Tinubu had directed the Communications Ministry to ensure all riverine communities were connected to the telecommunications network without further delay.

He said, “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.

“This is why we are installing 3,700 in rural communities across the country, and we are starting from Obighoro – Ogheye. We are coming back in October to flag off the network that will be here. 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.

“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. And that is why we are here.”

Musawa, who spoke in the same vein, said arrangements had been concluded to include the Bini Riva Live cultural festival in the ministry’s annual calendar, running from January to December.

She said the move was aimed at promoting the festival and attracting more local and international tourists to the event.

The minister also urged residents of the riverine communities to intensify their fishing activities in order to expand the industry and bring it up to international standards.