Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has announced plans to present the state’s 2025 budget to the State House of Assembly, led by Speaker Victor Oko-Jumbo.
The governor expressed his commitment to continued collaboration between the executive and legislative branches, noting the positive working relationship that has facilitated the swift passage of executive bills and the smooth screening of nominees.
Fubara made this announcement during the commissioning of two modern community town halls and the launch of a scholarship and empowerment programme in Akiama and Aganya communities, located in Bonny Local Government Area, on Saturday.
The event was attended by key state officials, including the Speaker, Oko-Jumbo, and was highlighted in a statement issued from Port Harcourt by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi.
In his address, which was delivered by his Chief of Staff, Edison Ehie, Governor Fubara extended congratulations to the Speaker, commending him for his role in facilitating the government’s agenda.
He assured that while the legislative arm of government remains independent, the executive would continue to work closely with the Assembly to foster the prosperity of Rivers State.
He particularly thanked the Speaker for his leadership in the screening of caretaker committee chairmen and the rapid passage of executive requests.
The governor also took the opportunity to contrast the Speaker’s proactive engagement with the Assembly with the inaction of 25 former lawmakers, who he described as “Abuja-based politicians. Constituency projects are a reflection of the commitment of elected representatives to their people. I ask, where are the projects from the former 25 members? Are they initiating or inspecting anything? They are nowhere to be found.”
Fubara praised the Speaker for the town hall projects, financial empowerment initiatives for 100 Bonny indigenes, and the award of tertiary scholarships to 30 students from Bonny.
Speaker Oko-Jumbo thanked the people of Bonny for their continued support for the 10th Assembly and reiterated his confidence in the Governor’s leadership.
He assured the people that despite any opposition from former lawmakers or other detractors, the Assembly would remain focused on delivering for the state.
He also highlighted the inclusion of Bonny Local Government in the upcoming 2025 budget, ensuring that the community’s infrastructure needs would be addressed.
“The 2025 budget, to be presented soon by His Excellency, will include critical infrastructure projects for Bonny Local Government,” Oko-Jumbo affirmed.
