By Our Reporter
Sir Siminalayi Fubara, Rivers State Governor,
has signed the 2026 State Appropriation Bill into law, describing the development as a “breath of fresh air” and the beginning of a new chapter of unity, cooperation and progress in the state.
Fubara signed the bill on Thursday at a brief ceremony held at the Government House, Port Harcourt, where he expressed appreciation to God, stakeholders and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly for the successful passage of the budget. He particularly commended the lawmakers for their diligence and speed in considering the bill at what he described as a critical period in the state’s history.
The Governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to its “Rivers First” agenda, assuring residents that the 2026 budget would be implemented with their welfare at the centre of government policies and programmes.
“Our intention will still remain the progress and development of our dear state,” Fubara said, while pledging to maintain a cordial and cooperative relationship with all arms of government and other stakeholders.
The Governor also acknowledged the role of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Chief Nyesom Wike, in facilitating the meeting and process that culminated in the passage and signing of the budget.
He further expressed appreciation to his family and other stakeholders for their support, stressing that governance remained a collective responsibility.
Earlier, the Majority Leader of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Hon. Major Jack, had presented the Appropriation Bill to the Governor for his assent.
Jack said the lawmakers passed the budget with the best interests of Rivers residents in mind, expressing the expectation that its implementation would promote growth and development across the state.
In his remarks, the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Martin Amaewhule , commended Governor Fubara for the provisions contained in the budget, saying they demonstrated the administration’s readiness to deliver the dividends of democracy to the people.
The ceremony was attended by members of the State Executive Council, principal officers of the State House of Assembly and other government functionaries.
