Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has presented a proposed ₦1.854 trillion Appropriation Bill for the 2026 fiscal year to the Rivers State House of Assembly, describing the spending plan as a roadmap for sustained growth, infrastructure development and improved service delivery across the state.
The presentation marks his first appearance before the Assembly led by Speaker Martin Amaewhule since the political crisis that divided the legislature in 2023.
The budget presentation is widely seen as a significant political milestone, reflecting improved relations between the executive and legislative arms after nearly three years of parallel sittings, legal disputes and rival budget presentations.
The renewed cooperation signals a fresh chapter in governance within Rivers State.
Addressing lawmakers, Governor Fubara said the proposed budget is designed to consolidate his administration's achievements while accelerating development in key sectors, including infrastructure, education, healthcare, security and economic expansion.
He also reaffirmed his commitment to transparency, accountability and prudent management of public resources.
According to the governor, the proposed expenditure represents a 24.49 per cent increase over the adjusted 2025 budget, with projected revenue expected from internally generated revenue (IGR), allocations from the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC), grants, loans, capital receipts and other legitimate sources.
Receiving the appropriation bill, Speaker Martin Amaewhule assured the governor that the House would give the proposal prompt and thorough legislative consideration.
He noted that members of the Assembly fully understood their constitutional responsibility to scrutinise the budget in the interest of Rivers people.
Following the formal presentation, Governor Fubara exchanged pleasantries with lawmakers before posing for a group photograph alongside members of the Assembly, an image widely interpreted as symbolising the restoration of executive-legislative harmony after months of political tensions.
The House subsequently adjourned plenary until July 20, when deliberations on the appropriation bill are expected to continue.
Lawmakers are anticipated to review the proposal in detail before its eventual passage into law.
Political observers believe the budget presentation represents more than a fiscal exercise, describing it as evidence that reconciliation efforts within Rivers State's political leadership are beginning to yield practical results capable of improving governance and policy implementation.
If approved, the ₦1.854 trillion budget will provide the financial framework for the state's programmes and capital projects throughout the 2026 fiscal year, with the administration expressing confidence that the spending plan will support economic growth, improve public services and enhance the welfare of Rivers residents.