By Jemilat Nasiru

Siminalayi Fubara, governor of Rivers, has signed the state’s 2026 N1.854 trillion appropriation bill into law.

In a statement issued on Wednesday by Onwuka Nzeshi, his chief press secretary (CPS), Fubara described the signing of the appropriation bill as “a breath of fresh air” and the beginning of a new chapter of unity and progress in the state.

Fubara signed the bill at a ceremony held at the government house in Port Harcourt, the Rivers capital, where he expressed gratitude to God, stakeholders and members of the state house of assembly for the passage of the budget.

“First of all, we want to thank the Almighty God for making this day a reality. I strongly believe that it is a breath of fresh air and a healthy relationship moving forward,” he said.

The appropriation bill, tagged “Budget of resilience for growth and development”, was earlier passed on Thursday by the Rivers state house of assembly.

The signing follows months of political tension between the governor and the state assembly.

On July 10, Fubara presented the appropriation bill to the Martin Amaewhule-led assembly, following which it was considered and passed before being transmitted it to the governor for assent.

Fubara commended the lawmakers for their diligence and speed in handling the budget, particularly at what he described as a critical time in the state’s history.

He also acknowledged Nyesom Wike, minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), for facilitating the process that led to the passage and signing of the bill.

The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the “Rivers first” mantra, saying the implementation of the 2026 budget would focus on the welfare of the people.

“I thank members of the state house of assembly for a wonderful job at this very critical time of our life,” he said.

“I want to assure you that our intention will still remain the progress and development of our dear state.

“Let me also thank our leader, the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Chief (Barr.) Nyesom Wike, for facilitating this meeting and this process that we are all signing into.”

The event was attended by members of the state executive council, principal officers of the state house of assembly and other government officials.

Source: TheCable