Rivers State's N1.854tn 2026 Budget Prioritises Critical Development Areas

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has formally submitted a N1.854 trillion Appropriation Bill for the year 2026 to the State House of Assembly. This financial proposal, titled ‘Budget of Resilience for Growth and Development,’ places significant emphasis on vital sectors such as infrastructure, education, healthcare, and enhancing public service delivery for the benefit of residents.

Governor Fubara highlighted that the proposed budget is designed to sustain the state's economic momentum, expand essential infrastructure, and uplift the general welfare of its citizens. Speaking before the lawmakers, the Governor affirmed that the 2026 budget builds upon his administration's accomplishments, despite the various challenges encountered by the state. He stressed that the estimates reflect his government’s dedication to prudent financial management and fiscal responsibility.

The proposed budget, amounting to N1,854,248,734,475.76, represents a substantial 24.49 percent increase compared to the adjusted 2025 budget. This growth is primarily driven by anticipated increases in allocations from the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC), derivation revenue, and internally generated revenue (IGR). Governor Fubara projected that the state would generate N487.61 billion from IGR, while N936.05 billion is expected from FAAC allocations, derivation funds, Value Added Tax (VAT), and exchange gains. Additionally, N382.48 billion is projected from capital receipts, which include loans, grants, and asset sales.

Under the proposed spending plan, N413.11 billion is allocated for recurrent expenditure, with a massive N1.405 trillion earmarked for capital projects. This significant capital allocation underscores the administration's resolve to accelerate development across Rivers State. Specific provisions include N154.77 billion for personnel costs and N15.22 billion for new recruitments. The budget also covers pensions, gratuities, death benefits, and debt servicing. Furthermore, the Governor proposed a 50 percent increase in overhead expenditure for Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to bolster their operational capacity immediately after the budget becomes law. He also reassured workers and retirees that adequate provisions have been made to settle outstanding gratuities and death benefits inherited from previous administrations.

Analysis of the capital budget shows the Works and Infrastructure sector receiving the largest share with N533.32 billion. Education follows with a substantial N315 billion, and Healthcare is allocated N105.43 billion. Other key allocations include N41.44 billion for the Rivers State House of Assembly, N30 billion for the Judiciary, N19.26 billion for Agriculture, N15 billion for Power, N8.5 billion for Chieftaincy and Community Development, N7.98 billion for Sports, N7 billion for Youth Development, N6.5 billion for Women Affairs, and N6.61 billion for Environment and Sustainable Development.

Governor Fubara reiterated that the budget prioritises the completion of ongoing road projects, new infrastructure investments, improved education and healthcare services, job creation, and expanded economic opportunities for the state's residents. He described the proposal as a 'people-centred budget' and gave his assurance to the people of Rivers State that all public funds would be judiciously managed to deliver quality services, attract investments, and stimulate inclusive development.

Acknowledging the delay in the budget presentation, Governor Fubara appealed to members of the House of Assembly for speedy consideration and passage to facilitate timely implementation. He stated, “At the core of this budget is our commitment to infrastructure development including new investments, the completion of ongoing road projects, and the maintenance of existing roads and bridges. We have also allocated an exceptionally large budget to education, aiming to reshape the future of our state’s education systems to achieve better outcomes. Mr. Speaker, the 2026 budget is not just about allocating funds to specific socio-economic sectors. Instead, it is a people-centred budget that acts as a blueprint for progress and service delivery, outlining a vision for a better future. It will bring tangible benefits to every ward, local government area, and resident. As a government, we remain committed to getting the essentials right and building a state where all residents, regardless of background, receive the services they deserve. We will ensure every Kobo is spent wisely to deliver services, attract investment, create jobs, and provide opportunities for our people to flourish.”

In response, the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Martin Amaewhule, acknowledged the delayed presentation but assured Governor Fubara of the legislature's commitment to expedite its consideration for the benefit of the Rivers people. Amaewhule commended the Governor for presenting a comprehensive budget that addresses all sectors of the state's economy, pledging that the Assembly members would diligently work towards its swift passage to enable prompt implementation.