Fubara Signs N1.84tn Rivers 2026 Budget Into Law

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has signed the state’s 2026 Appropriation Bill of N1.84 trillion into law, hours after the State House of Assembly approved the budget.

Fubara assented to the bill on Thursday during a brief ceremony at the Executive Chambers of the Government House in Port Harcourt, describing the development as a new beginning for the state.

The governor thanked members of the State House of Assembly for their diligence in considering and passing the appropriation bill, assuring the people that his administration would continue to prioritise their welfare and the development of Rivers State.

The budget, titled “Budget of Resilience for Growth and Development,” was passed by the Assembly after lawmakers reviewed provisions contained in the governor’s original proposal.

Fubara had presented a N1.854 trillion 2026 budget proposal to the legislature on July 10, representing a 24.5 per cent increase over the revised 2025 budget.

Under the spending plan, total capital expenditure is projected at about N1.4 trillion. Key allocations include N625.8 billion for the economic sector, N435.4 billion for the social sector, N262 billion for agriculture and N65 billion for law and justice.

The budget is expected to be financed through several sources, including N487.6 billion in internally generated revenue, N936.052 billion from Federation Account allocations, N50 billion in proposed internal loans, N25 billion from asset sales and N48 billion in balances.

One contentious provision concerned an allocation proposed for Pamo University of Medical Sciences, a privately owned institution. Lawmakers raised concerns about accountability and the utilisation of previous allocations, leading to the stepping down of the proposed N6 billion provision pending further consideration.

Fubara also acknowledged the role of former Rivers Governor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, in facilitating discussions that contributed to the passage and signing of the budget.

The governor said his administration would remain committed to the “Rivers First” agenda, with emphasis on progress, development and the welfare of residents.

The signing brings the legislative process for the 2026 appropriation to an end and clears the way for implementation of the approved spending plan.