Nere Emiko, lead promoter of Legacy of Traditions and BINI RIVA Life, has called for urgent expansion of digital connectivity across Nigeria’s riverine communities, describing reliable telecommunications infrastructure as a vital driver of education, healthcare, security, financial inclusion and economic growth.
According to Emiko, many riverine settlements continue to struggle with poor mobile network coverage, unstable electricity supply and expensive water transportation. He said these longstanding challenges have discouraged investment and restricted residents’ access to essential services.
Drawing from findings of his research in Delta State, Emiko explained that poor transportation and weak telecommunications services have contributed to frequent teacher absenteeism and low student attendance in schools located within riverine communities. He noted that with Nigeria increasingly adopting computer based examinations, dependable internet access is now essential to ensure students in remote areas enjoy equal educational opportunities.
He also expressed concern over the healthcare situation in many coastal communities, where inadequate medical facilities and transportation difficulties often delay access to emergency care and specialist treatment. According to him, the situation continues to affect maternal healthcare and the wellbeing of many vulnerable residents.
Speaking on the economic impact of poor infrastructure, Emiko observed that fishing remains the major source of livelihood in many riverine areas. However, he said limited digital infrastructure prevents fishermen and traders from reaching wider markets or accessing modern financial services that could improve their businesses.
He explained that improved telecommunications would encourage the adoption of digital payments, expand financial inclusion and create new opportunities for business growth within the affected communities.
Emiko also pointed to the security importance of strengthening communication infrastructure in riverine areas, many of which are home to critical oil and gas installations. He said better network coverage would enhance surveillance, improve emergency response capabilities and contribute to the protection of strategic national assets.
Describing digital connectivity as the foundation for sustainable development, Emiko welcomed the Federal Government’s Riverine Connect Initiative. He expressed confidence that the pilot launch scheduled to take place during the BINI RIVA Life event on the Benin River in August 2026 would attract investment in digital education, technology driven businesses, financial services, tourism and entrepreneurship.
He called on governments at all levels, telecommunications companies, development partners and community leaders to work together in extending digital infrastructure to underserved riverine communities, saying the initiative has the potential to drive inclusive growth and transform lives across Nigeria’s coastal regions.
