Governor Fubara Signs N1.85 Trillion 2026 Rivers Budget Into Law, Calls it ‘Breath of Fresh Air’

Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has signed the state’s N1.85 trillion 2026 Appropriation Bill into law, describing the budget as a “breath of fresh air” and a turning point for unity and cooperation in the state.

The signing ceremony took place on Thursday at the Executive Council Chambers, Government House, Port Harcourt, where the governor commended the Rivers State House of Assembly for its diligence and speed in handling the budget.

“First of all, we want to thank the Almighty God for making this day a reality. I strongly believe that it is a breath of fresh air and a healthy relationship moving forward,” Fubara said after assenting to the bill.

The budget, tagged “Budget of Resilience for Growth and Development,” totals N1,854,248,734,475.76, representing a 24.5 percent increase over the revised 2025 budget.

It comprises N1.405 trillion for capital expenditure and N413.1 billion for recurrent expenditure.

Works and Infrastructure received the largest allocation of N533.32 billion, followed by Education with N315 billion and Healthcare with N105.43 billion.

The governor thanked the Martin Amaewhule-led Assembly for processing the budget, which had been presented to the legislature in July.

“I thank members of the state house of assembly for a wonderful job at this very critical time of our life,” Fubara stated.

In a significant move, Fubara acknowledged his predecessor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, for facilitating the process that led to the budget’s passage.

“Let me also thank our leader, the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Chief Nyesom Wike, for facilitating this meeting and this process that we are all signing into,” the governor said.

The signing marks the first budget Fubara has assented to as governor since assuming office in 2023, following months of political tension between the executive and the Assembly.

Speaker Martin Amaewhule disclosed that the Assembly reduced a proposed N6 billion allocation for PAMO University of Medical Sciences after the university’s management failed to provide satisfactory explanations on previous fund utilisation.

Part of the slashed funds was reallocated to the Rivers State Primary Healthcare Development Board.

Majority Leader Major Jack, who presented the bill to the governor, said the lawmakers expected the budget to “usher in the desired growth and development of the state”.

Governor Fubara reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the “Rivers First” mantra and pledged to prioritise the welfare of residents during implementation.

“I want to assure you that our intention will still remain the progress and development of our dear state,” he said.