The Rivers State Government’s proposed N1.854 trillion 2026 budget has remained pending in the state House of Assembly, weeks after Governor Siminalayi Fubara presented the appropriation bill to lawmakers.
The delay has been linked to continuing disagreements and fresh understandings between Governor Fubara and the Martin Amaewhule-led Rivers State House of Assembly.
Fubara presented the budget, titled “Budget of Resilience for Growth and Development,” to the Assembly on July 10, 2026, seeking legislative consideration and approval.
Although the Speaker acknowledged the late presentation and promised that lawmakers would examine the proposal in the interest of the state, the budget has yet to be passed.
The delay has generated concern among residents and stakeholders because the appropriation bill provides the financial framework for implementing government programmes and projects.
Investigations reported that some development projects across Rivers State, including the multi-billion-naira Ring Road project, were either progressing slowly or not being executed at the expected pace because of the absence of appropriated funds.
The political crisis that previously affected relations between the governor and lawmakers has also contributed to uncertainty surrounding the budget.
Sources within the Assembly reportedly linked the delay to fresh agreements between Fubara and lawmakers, while also pointing to a lack of mutual trust following earlier disagreements and alleged unfulfilled commitments.
Another issue attracting attention is the proposed N41.4 billion allocation to the Rivers State House of Assembly. Some residents and stakeholders have criticised the figure as excessive, while others argue that adequate funding is necessary for the legislature to perform its constitutional responsibilities.
Also Read;https://caliphatebroadcast.com/who-convenes-historic-global-forum-to-strengthen-scientific-collaboration/
Stakeholders have warned that prolonged delays in approving the budget could affect the implementation of government projects and programmes.
The budget is particularly important because it is expected to fund infrastructure, education, healthcare, economic programmes and other areas of development across the state.
Observers have therefore urged both the governor and lawmakers to resolve their differences and prioritise the interests of Rivers residents.
The delay also comes after a prolonged political dispute that had affected the relationship between the executive and legislative arms of government.
With the budget still awaiting approval, pressure is expected to increase on the two sides to reach an understanding and ensure that the state’s financial plans for 2026 are implemented.
Stakeholders have stressed that political disagreements should not prevent the government from delivering essential services and infrastructure to residents.