● Acknowledges that a new era of cooperation has arrived
Governor Siminalayi Fubara says Rivers State is poised to experience an era of unity and progress anchored on a new spirit of cooperation and understanding that is taking shape. ubara who signed the 2026 Appropriation Bill into law as soon as Government House received it on Thursday described the passage of the 2026 budget as a “breathe of fresh air.”.
Speaking during the budget signing ceremony, Governor Fubara expressed utmost gratitude to God, Rivers stakeholders, and memberd of the State House of Assembly for the successful passage of the budget.
According to him, “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.”
The State Governor commended members of the Rivers State House of Assembly particularly, for their diligence and speed in handling the budget at a critical time in the state’s history.
“I thank members of the State House of Assembly for a wonderful job at this very critical time of our life,” he said.
Fubara reaffirmed his administration’s commitment, to the “Rivers First” mantra, and pledged that the 2026 budget will be implemented with the people’s welfare as the central focus.
“ I want to assure you that our intention will still remain the progress and development of our dear state,” he said.
Governor Fubara specially acknowledged the role of the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Chief Nyesom Wike, in facilitating the process that led to the passage of the bill and its eventual signing into law.
“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,” he stated.
The Governor also appreciated his family for their support, noting that governance is a collective responsibility. He further pledged to ensure a cordial working relationship with all arms of government and stakeholders going forward.
“Let me thank everyone for this moment and assure you of our most cordial and cooperative relationship going forward,”
Governor Fubara said.
Tabling the budget before the Governor for his assent, the Majority Leader of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Major Jack, said lawmakers passed the budget with the best of intentions.
“It is the expectation of the Honourable Members of the Rivers State House of Assembly”, Jack remarked, “that this budget will usher in the desired growth and development of the state.”
Speaker Martin Amaewhule who spoke after the budget was signed commended Governor Fubara for the various provisions made in the budget. He noted that they were indications that the Fubara administration is prepared to deliver the dividends of democracy.
“We took time to look at the budget and from what we saw, we want to tell you that it shows that you are willing to move forward” and ensure that democracy works for Rivers people, Amaewhule added.
