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Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has approved a 50 per cent increase in the overhead expenditure of the State Judiciary and its institutions to strengthen their operations and improve justice delivery.
Governor Fubara disclosed this during the Special Court Session marking the commencement of the 2026/2027 Legal Year at the Ceremonial Court Hall of the High Court Complex, Port Harcourt.
The Governor, who was represented by his Deputy, Prof. Ngozi Nma Odu, said the increase followed the passage of the 2026 Appropriation Law and was aimed at meeting the operational needs of the Judiciary, improving judicial welfare and supporting training for judicial officers and staff.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the independence and autonomy of the Judiciary, assuring judges and magistrates of continued government support to enable them discharge their constitutional responsibilities effectively.
Fubara congratulated the Chief Judge of Rivers State, Justice Simeon Chibuzor Amadi, and the entire Judiciary on the commencement of the new legal year, describing the occasion as a period for reflection, accountability and renewed commitment to justice.
He commended the Judiciary for its contributions to peace, stability and socio-economic development through the settlement of disputes and administration of justice.
The Governor, however, acknowledged challenges confronting the institution, including inadequate infrastructure and manpower, heavy caseloads, case-management difficulties and delays in the administration of justice.
He said his administration had, over the past three years, supported reforms in the Judiciary through improved access to justice, the appointment of additional judges and magistrates, digitalisation of case management and the strengthening of institutional frameworks.
Fubara said the Judiciary remained a critical arm of government and a cornerstone of peace, stability and development, stressing that public confidence in the courts was essential to building trust between government and citizens.
He assured the Judiciary that his administration would continue to respect its constitutional autonomy and provide the resources required for it to operate without interference.
In his address, Justice Amadi commended Governor Fubara for his support for the rule of law and for creating an environment that enables the Judiciary to discharge its constitutional responsibilities as the third arm of government.
The Chief Judge urged judicial officers to remain faithful to their Judicial Oath, saying the Judiciary must remain a sanctuary of justice where the weak can seek protection and the powerful are held accountable under the law.
He also called for improved manpower and better conditions of service, noting that a well-equipped and motivated Judiciary would strengthen the administration of justice.
The President of the Customary Court of Appeal, Justice Ihemnacho Wilfred Chibuzor, similarly recommitted himself to service and integrity, stressing that a well-motivated and respected Judiciary would promote integrity and help curb corruption.
The 2026/2027 Legal Year commenced with a Thanksgiving and Rededication Service at the Cathedral Church of St. Paul, Rebisi, earlier on Thursday.
