Fubara Signs Historic N1.85trn Rivers Budget, Thanks Wike for Brokering Peace with Assembly

Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has signed the ₦1.85 trillion 2026 State Appropriation Bill into law, describing the successful passage and enactment of the budget as a “breath of fresh air” and the beginning of a united chapter in the governance of the state.

The signing ceremony, held at the Executive Council Chambers in Government House, Port Harcourt, marks an unexpected turning point in the protracted political impasse that has gripped Rivers State. The document represents the very first fiscal budget to successfully navigate the legislative floor under the leadership of Speaker Martin Amaewhule since Fubara was inaugurated, bringing a close to months of administrative uncertainty and institutional friction.

In a notable reconciliatory gesture during the event, Governor Fubara offered profound gratitude to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and immediate-past governor, Nyesom Wike, commending him for stepping in to facilitate the engagement that unlocked the legislative process. Fubara acknowledged that constructive engagement among all institutional stakeholders is essential for moving the state forward, declaring that the collective focus must remain firmly on peace, development, and the welfare of Rivers citizens.

Tagged the “Budget of Resilience for Growth and Development,” the ₦1.85 trillion fiscal package represents an approximate 24.5 percent increase over the revised previous fiscal estimates. The expenditure framework strongly favors infrastructure and capital development, committing more than ₦1.4 trillion to capital projects and over ₦413 billion to recurrent spending. Fubara reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to its “Rivers First” mantra, promising that every naira allocated will translate into tangible benefits in healthcare, education, road networks, and economic opportunities for everyday families.

Speaking on behalf of the legislature, Speaker Martin Amaewhule praised the budget provisions, stating that the legislature’s thorough scrutiny affirmed that the executive is genuinely prepared to deliver the dividends of democracy to the people. The House had earlier subjected the bill to committee examination, during which lawmakers introduced fiscal adjustments—such as expunging a proposed ₦6 billion grant allocation to private tertiary institutions pending deeper review, and allocating funds for the Primary Health Management Board to rebuild a burnt logistics facility in Port Harcourt.

Presenting the document for assent, Majority Leader Major Jack noted that the Assembly passed the bill in good faith, confident that it will usher in sustainable economic stability. The collaborative atmosphere surrounding the signing signals a potential recalibration of Rivers politics, pivoting from confrontation toward joint execution of the state’s development priorities.