Fubara 2026 Budget: Governor Proposes N1.85 Trillion, Allocates N1.4 Trillion for Capital Projects
Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has presented a proposed N1.85 trillion budget for the 2026 fiscal year, with a significant N1.4 trillion allocated to capital projects as part of his administration’s drive to accelerate infrastructure development and improve public service delivery across the state.
The proposed appropriation bill, presented before the Rivers State House of Assembly, reflects the government’s intention to prioritize capital expenditure over recurrent spending in a bid to stimulate economic growth, create jobs and expand critical infrastructure. The governor said the budget was carefully designed to sustain development initiatives while addressing the needs of residents in key sectors of the state’s economy.
According to Fubara, the 2026 budget focuses on delivering projects that will have a lasting impact on the lives of the people, including investments in roads, bridges, healthcare facilities, schools, water supply, housing and other essential public infrastructure. He noted that improved infrastructure remains a major pillar of his administration’s development agenda.
Out of the proposed N1.85 trillion, about N1.4 trillion has been set aside for capital expenditure, representing the largest share of the budget. The remaining allocation is expected to cover recurrent expenditure, including salaries, pensions, overhead costs and the day-to-day running of government ministries, departments and agencies.
Governor Fubara said the emphasis on capital spending demonstrates his administration’s commitment to building a stronger economy through investments that will benefit both current and future generations. He added that infrastructure development would also attract private investment, boost commercial activities and improve the overall business environment in Rivers State.
The governor assured lawmakers that the proposed budget was prepared based on realistic revenue projections and prudent fiscal planning. He expressed confidence that the state’s internally generated revenue, federal allocations and other legitimate income sources would support the implementation of the budget without compromising financial discipline.
Fubara also highlighted plans to strengthen investments in education and healthcare, stating that quality public services remain essential for sustainable development. According to him, improving schools, hospitals and social infrastructure will enhance the standard of living and create better opportunities for residents across the state.
The budget proposal further includes provisions for agriculture, environmental sustainability, youth empowerment and support for small and medium-sized enterprises. The governor explained that these sectors have the potential to diversify the state’s economy, generate employment and reduce dependence on oil revenue.
Speaking during the presentation, Fubara urged members of the Rivers State House of Assembly to give the appropriation bill speedy consideration, stressing that timely approval would enable the government to commence implementation at the beginning of the fiscal year.
Lawmakers are expected to subject the budget proposal to legislative scrutiny through committee reviews and consultations before its eventual passage. The process will involve examining revenue assumptions, expenditure plans and sectoral allocations to ensure they align with the state’s development priorities.
Economic analysts have described the proposed budget as one of the largest in the state’s history, noting that its success will largely depend on effective implementation, transparent procurement processes and sustained revenue generation. They also emphasized the importance of monitoring project execution to ensure that allocated funds translate into tangible development outcomes.
Residents and stakeholders are expected to closely follow the legislative process as discussions continue on the appropriation bill. Many believe that successful implementation of the proposed capital projects could significantly improve transportation, healthcare, education and other critical sectors while supporting economic growth across Rivers State.
If approved by the House of Assembly, the 2026 budget will serve as the financial blueprint for Governor Fubara’s administration, guiding government spending and development programmes throughout the fiscal year.
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