N1.85 Trillion 2026 Budget Presented to Rivers Assembly by Governor Fubara

Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has formally submitted a N1.854 trillion Appropriation Bill for the 2026 fiscal year to the Rivers State House of Assembly. This significant event marks Governor Fubara's initial engagement with the legislative body, presided over by Speaker Martin Amaewhule, since the political unrest that fragmented the assembly in 2023. The proceedings commenced with Speaker Amaewhule entering the legislative chambers in his official attire, preceding the governor's arrival. Subsequently, Majority Leader Major Jack initiated a motion to officially welcome the governor, a proposal that received support from Minority Leader Sylvanus Nwankwo, paving the way for Governor Fubara to formally present the budget.

During his presentation, Governor Fubara unveiled the financial estimates, christened “Budget of Resilience for Growth and Development.” He articulated that this proposed budget aims to foster economic stability, bolster infrastructural development, advance human capital, and boost social welfare initiatives throughout Rivers State. The governor forecasted a total revenue of ₦1.854 trillion for the 2026 financial year, which signifies a 24.49 percent rise compared to the revised 2025 budget. He attributed this anticipated revenue surge to increased allocations from the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC), augmented derivation funds, and improved internally generated revenue.

Delving into the specifics of the proposed expenditure, ₦413.1 billion has been designated for recurrent expenses, with a substantial ₦1.405 trillion allocated to capital projects. Key components of this capital outlay include ₦533.3 billion dedicated to works and infrastructure, ₦315 billion for the education sector, ₦105.4 billion for healthcare services, ₦41.4 billion for the Rivers State House of Assembly, ₦30 billion for the judiciary, and ₦19.3 billion for agriculture, alongside provisions for other vital sectors.

Furthermore, Governor Fubara disclosed intentions to elevate overhead allocations for various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) by a minimum of 50 percent. His administration also plans to settle all outstanding gratuities and death benefits due to retired civil servants. He affirmed that his government has upheld fiscal discipline through judicious oversight of public finances, emphasizing an unwavering commitment to accountability, transparency, and responsible expenditure.

He stated, “We will ensure every kobo is spent wisely to create jobs for our people. The collective interests of our people are most important to us as a government.” The governor appealed to the legislators for their swift approval, characterizing the budget as a citizen-focused strategy designed to accelerate development, draw investments, generate employment opportunities, and uplift the quality of life for all residents within the coastal state.

“Let us join hands to make sure Rivers State continues to stand out in good governance,” Governor Fubara urged, as he officially presented the budget bill to Speaker Amaewhule.

Under the heading, ‘Our State Has To Grow,’ Speaker Amaewhule took possession of the bill and immediately initiated its review before addressing Governor Fubara directly, representing the entire House. He assured the governor, saying, “Let me assure you on behalf of the members that we will give due consideration to your budget proposals.” Amaewhule reiterated the Assembly's profound understanding of its duties. He stressed, “Our state has to grow, and all hands have to be on deck for the growth of Rivers State,” concluding with a commitment to collective action: “We are willing to do all that is needed as an assembly so our people can smile again.”

The 2026 Appropriations Bill successfully completed its first reading. After the formal presentation, Governor Fubara engaged in cordial exchanges with the lawmakers. He was then escorted out of the chambers by the Speaker and other members of the House for a group photograph, a symbolic gesture that portrayed a sense of executive-legislative cooperation, a dynamic not consistently present in Rivers State's political landscape in recent times. The plenary session was subsequently adjourned until July 20.

This budget presentation signifies a pivotal moment in the state’s political trajectory, occurring after a period of reconciliation between the governor and the legislators, following nearly three years characterized by parallel legislative sessions and competing budget proposals.