Rivers Assembly Advances 2026 Budget

Author: Gist Correspondent

The Rivers State House of Assembly has passed the 2026 Appropriation Bill for second reading and committed it to relevant committees for detailed legislative scrutiny.

The bill, titled "Budget of Resilience for Growth and Development," was debated during the 36th Legislative Sitting of the Fourth Session on Tuesday, with lawmakers reviewing its key provisions before referring it to committees for further consideration.

Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Martin Chike Amaewhule, said the budget proposal had been under preliminary review since it was presented by Governor Siminalayi Fubara about six weeks ago.

Amaewhule stated that the Assembly would subject the budget to thorough legislative scrutiny and oversight to ensure that funds appropriated are transparently and effectively utilised for the benefit of Rivers people.

He directed all House committees to invite Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) under their oversight to defend their budget proposals before the appropriation process is concluded.

Leading the debate on the bill, Majority Leader Hon. Major Jack highlighted the importance of the revenue framework contained in the budget, expressing confidence that with proper legislative input, the appropriation would accelerate growth and development across the state.

The committee stage is expected to pave the way for detailed examination of sectoral allocations before the budget is considered for final passage.