After Political Tensions, Fubara Lays ₦1.854tn Budget Proposal for 2026 to Amaewhule-Led Assembly
Business/Economy
Port Harcourt, Rivers — In a significant move signalling potential reconciliation after years of intense political rivalry in Rivers State, Governor Siminalayi Fubara on Friday presented a proposed ₦1.854 trillion Appropriation Bill for the 2026 fiscal year to the Martin Amaewhule-led Rivers State House of Assembly.
The budget, tagged “Budget of Resilience for Growth and Development”, represents a 24.49% increase over the adjusted 2025 budget.
It allocates ₦1.405 trillion to capital projects, with priority areas including infrastructure development, education, and healthcare with recurrent expenditure component expected to cover salaries, pensions, and other overheads.
This marks the first time Governor Fubara has appeared before the Amaewhule-led Assembly since the 2023 political crisis that led to parallel legislative factions in the state.
The presentation follows the recent approval of the 2026–2028 Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) and a peace accord reportedly brokered by President Bola Tinubu in 2024.
While presenting the budget estimates at the Rivers State House of Assembly Quarters Auditorium, Fubara stressed fiscal prudence.
He described the proposal as aligned with his administration’s vision for a secure, prosperous, and inclusive Rivers State.
Speaker Martin Amaewhule had earlier criticised the executive for delays in submitting the MTEF, citing breaches of the Rivers State Fiscal Responsibility Law. However, the House proceeded in the interest of the state.
The event comes after prolonged tensions between the executive and the legislature, often linked to the influence of former Governor Nyesom Wike. Many observers view the budget presentation as a pragmatic step toward stability, even as scepticism remains about the durability of the truce.
Analysts note that successful passage and implementation of this “Budget of Resilience” could be key to Fubara’s ability to deliver on campaign promises amid ongoing economic pressures at both state and national levels.
Further details on specific project allocations and revenue projections are expected as the Assembly commences detailed scrutiny in the coming weeks.
