The Rivers State House of Assembly unanimously passed the 1.8 trillion naira 2026 Appropriation Bill during a sitting in Port Harcourt, with all 26 attending lawmakers voting in favor. The spending plan, titled "Budget of Resilience for Growth and Development," covers the fiscal period through September 2, 2027. Following legislative passage, the bill was transmitted to Governor Siminalayi Fubara, who subsequently signed it into law during a ceremony at the Executive Chambers of Government House in Port Harcourt.
Executive Presentation and Revenue Scrutiny
Governor Fubara initially presented the 1.8 trillion naira fiscal proposal to the Assembly on July 10, describing the budget as a plan designed to promote sustainable growth and regional development. House Leader Major Jack moved the motion for the second reading, calling attention to the revenue framework. Deputy Speaker Dumle Maol noted that the proposal represents the largest budget in the state's history, emphasizing the necessity for rigorous legislative oversight to ensure appropriate execution and fiscal accountability.
Legislative Oversight and Funding Audits
Speaker Martin Amaewhule directed House committees to conduct thorough budget defense sessions with government ministries, departments, and agencies. Amaewhule confirmed that the Assembly will also extend its oversight responsibilities to examine non-governmental organizations and other external institutions receiving state government funding.
