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NDDC 2026 Budget: Tinubu Seeks Speedy Reps Approval …Prioritises Youths, Power, Health

The Atlantic Bell
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President Bola Tinubu has asked the House of Representatives to expedite consideration and passage of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) 2026 statutory budget, with youth empowerment, electricity, education, healthcare, security and agriculture identified as the commission’s key spending priorities.

The President made the request in a letter dated August 20, 2026, addressed to Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, transmitting the proposed budget for legislative approval.

According to Tinubu, the budget proposal was prepared by the Minister of Niger Delta Development in line with constitutional provisions and reflects the Federal Government’s fiscal direction under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

“In line with the provisions of Section 121 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Honourable Minister of Niger Delta Development has prepared the 2026 Statutory Budget Proposal of the NDDC, which is herewith forwarded for consideration and passage by the House of Representatives,” the President wrote.

He explained that the spending plan was based on the commission’s projected revenue and expenditure, while taking into account the Federal Government’s 2024–2026 Economic Recovery Growth Plan and the assumptions guiding the 2026 Appropriation Act.

Tinubu said the proposed allocations were designed to confront longstanding developmental challenges in the Niger Delta by expanding economic opportunities and improving access to essential services.

“The House of Representatives is invited to note that the NDDC is prioritising improvement in Youth Empowerment, Energy and Power Supply, Education, Industrial and Enterprise Development, Health, Security and increased productivity in Agriculture in order to lift a significant number of our citizens out of poverty,” he stated.

The renewed emphasis on youth empowerment and enterprise development comes amid persistent concerns over unemployment and limited livelihood opportunities for the region’s growing youth population.

Similarly, investments in power, agriculture and other infrastructure are expected to stimulate economic activities and improve living conditions across communities in the nine Niger Delta states. Tinubu urged the House to give the proposal prompt legislative attention.

“While I look forward to the timely passage of the 2026 Statutory Budget Proposal of the NDDC by the House of Representatives, please accept, Rt. Honourable Speaker, the assurances of my highest regards,” the President said.

The proposed budget will now undergo legislative scrutiny by the House and its relevant committees before consideration for passage.

Rivers Assembly Votes To Support State Police Constitutional Amendment

The Atlantic Bell
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The Rivers State House of Assembly has voted in support of the constitutional amendment seeking to establish state police, joining the ongoing nationwide process to reshape Nigeria’s security architecture.

The resolution was adopted on Monday during a plenary session presided over by Speaker Martin Amaewhule, following the consideration of the Constitutional Amendment Bill transmitted to the House by the National Assembly.

During the session, Amaewhule read the cover letter from the Clerk of the National Assembly and presented the accompanying bill containing the proposed constitutional alterations required for the creation of state police.

After reading the relevant sections slated for amendment, the Speaker put the proposal to a vote, with members unanimously endorsing the bill.

Amaewhule said the House’s decision was informed by the need to strengthen the country’s security framework and support ongoing security reforms under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The speaker explained that the bill contained 26 clauses, with 25 alterations involving substitutions to sections of the principal Act.

He listed Sections 84(4), 89(2), 121(3) 124(4), 109(2), 153(1), 157(2), 158(1) and 160 among the provisions for alteration.
He further directed that the votes and proceedings of the House on the state police amendment be adopted as an official working document. “These votes and proceedings are hereby adopted as a working document of this House,” the Speaker declared.

Amaewhule also said that the bill was expected to create a constitutional pathway for state police services, subject to the provisions of the constitution.

He said that when passed, the amendment would strengthen the National Assembly’s role in prescribing national minimum policing standards.

The Assembly is expected to formally communicate its resolution to the National Assembly through an official letter as part of the constitutional amendment process, which requires approval by state legislatures across the federation before the proposed alteration can proceed.

Fubara Rallies Rivers Around Peace, Unity At Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary Service …Says Unwavering Commitment To God, One Voice Key To State’s Continued Development

The Atlantic Bell
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Rivers State Deputy Governor, Prof. (Mrs.) Ngozi Nma Odu (6th Right), flanked by the State Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Simeon Chibuzor Amadi (6th Left), the Dean, Church of Nigeria, Archbishop, Province of Niger Delta/Bishop of Ikwerre Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Blessing Enyindah (5th Right), the Bishop, Diocese of Niger Delta North, Rt. Rev. Wisdom Ihunwo (4th Right), the Chief of Staff, Government House, Barr. Sunny Ewule (3rd Left) and other dignitaries shortly after the Inter-Denominational Church Service in Commemoration of the 66th Independence Anniversary of Nigeria at the Cathedral Church of St. Paul, Rebisi, Port Harcourt on the 27th Sept. 2026.

Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has called on the people of the state to remain united, uphold peace and deepen their commitment to God as the foundation for sustained development and prosperity.
The governor made the appeal during an Inter-Denominational Church Service marking Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary at the Cathedral Church of St. Paul, Rebisi, Port Harcourt, on Sunday.

Represented by his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Nma Odu, Fubara urged Rivers people to continue praying for enduring peace, unity and an unwavering commitment to the common good, stressing that the state would make greater progress when its people speak with one voice.

According to him, steadfast faith in God and collective unity remain essential ingredients for advancing human prosperity and accelerating development across the state.

He also prayed for God’s continued protection over the people of Rivers State, expressing confidence that the state would witness even greater developmental strides.

In his sermon, the Dean of the Church of Nigeria, Archbishop of the Province of the Niger Delta and Bishop of Ikwerre Diocese, the Most Rev. Blessing Enyindah, urged Nigerians not to lose hope despite the nation’s challenges.

Preaching from Isaiah 49:14-15, Enyindah said the assurance of God’s unfailing love and remembrance of Israel remained relevant to Nigeria’s current circumstances.
“God is saying to Nigeria and Nigerians, I will not forget you. God has not forgotten Nigeria,” he declared.

The cleric also challenged citizens to reflect on their personal character, embrace honesty and integrity, improve productivity and contribute meaningfully to the country’s development, insisting that national renewal begins with individual responsibility.

NDDC To Communities: Own, Protect Public Infrastructure Against Vandalism …Says Destruction Of Projects Diverts Funds From New Development

The Atlantic Bell
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NDDC Director, Administration and Human Resources, Sir Kelechi Nwelue and the Director, Community and Rural Development, Engr. Theophilus Alagoa (middle), surrounded by traditional rulers and stakeholders, during the Stakeholders’ Forum on Public Infrastructure and Vandalism Prevention in Port Harcourt.

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has urged traditional rulers, community leaders and residents across the Niger Delta to take ownership of public infrastructure in their communities and protect it from vandalism, theft and deliberate destruction.

The Commission warned that attacks on government-funded projects undermine development, increase maintenance costs and divert scarce resources that could have been used to execute new projects.

Speaking at a Stakeholders’ Forum on Public Infrastructure and Vandalism Prevention in Port Harcourt on Saturday, the Managing Director of NDDC, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, said safeguarding public assets requires a collective commitment from host communities.

Represented by the Director of Administration and Human Resources, Sir Kelechi Nwelue, Ogbuku stressed that while government has the responsibility of providing infrastructure, communities must see such projects as their own and ensure they are preserved.
“The aim of government is to focus on infrastructure, but after building, how do we protect it?” he asked.

“There is a need to create awareness and educate citizens that projects executed by government are the property of the community, and they should protect them,” he added.

He also encouraged residents to promptly report suspicious activities around public infrastructure to relevant authorities.

Also speaking, the NDDC Director of Community and Rural Development, Engr. Theophilus Alagoa, expressed concern over the increasing destruction of government facilities in communities, lamenting that many people failed to take responsibility for protecting projects intended to improve their lives.
“This event was organised to inform and educate everyone that government projects are our property, and it is imperative to take care of the investment,” he said.

Alagoa described vandalism, theft and the destruction of public infrastructure as acts of economic sabotage, warning that such crimes erode public resources, disrupt essential services and raise the cost of replacing damaged facilities.

He maintained that communities must play a more active role in safeguarding development projects to ensure they continue to deliver long-term benefits.

The facilitator of the forum, Mr Ibiyekaribo Inko-Tariah, urged participants to propose practical solutions to curb vandalism and theft, noting that the engagement formed part of the Commission’s broader efforts to secure government-funded infrastructure and ensure it continues to serve communities across the Niger Delta.

King Charles Vows New Era for Opobo, Seeks Equity As Fubara, Jonathan, Monarchs Rally Behind Historic Coronation

The Atlantic Bell
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Behold King Charles Douglas MacPepple Jaja, Jeki VI.

The ancient Kingdom of Opobo on Saturday wrote a new chapter in its 156-year royal history as His Majesty King Charles Douglas Mac-Pepple Jaja, Jeki VI, was crowned Amanyanabo, using his first address as monarch to unveil a development-focused vision anchored on justice, unity, equity and the restoration of the kingdom’s historic prominence.

The colourful coronation, held at the King Jaja Palace in Opobo Town, drew an array of distinguished personalities, including Rivers State Governor Sir Siminalayi Fubara, represented by Deputy Governor Prof. Ngozi Nma Odu; former President Dr. Goodluck Jonathan; the Obi of Onitsha, His Majesty Nnaemeka Alfred Ugochukwu Achebe; the Obong of Calabar; the Amanyanabo of Kalabari, His Royal Highness Asari Dokubo; and other first-class traditional rulers and dignitaries from across Nigeria.

In a coronation address that blended history with a call for renewal, King Jaja VI pledged to uphold the sovereignty and dignity of Opobo while pursuing purposeful development for the riverine kingdom.

King Charles Douglas MacPepple Jaja (left) with the Amanyanabo of Bonny, King Edward Asimini William Dappa Pepple, shortly before the coronation, last Saturday.

Paying glowing tribute to Opobo’s founding monarch, King Jaja of Opobo, he described him as a courageous strategist and statesman who transformed Opobo into a major commercial power and defended its economic interests against British imperial pressure.

Governor Fubara, in his goodwill message, urged traditional rulers across Rivers State to remain custodians of the people’s heritage while contributing to peace, stability and development.

Represented by Prof. Odu, the governor described traditional institutions as indispensable partners in preserving cultural values, fostering unity and maintaining peace across communities.

He said the coronation was more than the installation of a monarch; it was a celebration of Opobo’s rich history, culture and enduring heritage, which forms an integral part of the identity of Rivers State and Nigeria.

Fubara prayed for wisdom, peace and progress throughout King Jaja VI’s reign, expressing confidence that the monarch would provide purposeful leadership for the kingdom.

Former President Jonathan described the Opobo monarchy as one of Nigeria’s most distinguished traditional institutions, recalling that the name of King Jaja had earned global recognition far beyond the country’s shores.

Congratulating the new monarch, he expressed confidence that King Jaja VI would build on the achievements of his predecessors by promoting peace, unity and sustainable development.

The Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe, reflected on the centuries-old relationship between Onitsha and Opobo, describing it as one forged through trade, mutual respect and the shared legacy of their ancestors.

King Charles, shortly after his coronation by Bishop Emmanuel Okwuchi Oko-Jaja at Opobo, on Saturday.

He recalled attending the installation of the late Amanyanabo in full traditional regalia and said he was delighted to witness another defining moment in Opobo’s royal history.

The climax of the ceremony came with the anointing and coronation of King Charles Douglas Mac-Pepple Jaja VI by the Bishop of the Niger Delta Diocese, Rt. Rev. Dr. Emmanuel Okwuchi Oko-Jaja, formally enthroning him as the sixth monarch in the royal lineage established by the legendary King Jaja in 1870.

The coronation, marked by pomp, pageantry and deep cultural symbolism, attracted guests from across Nigeria and beyond, reinforcing Opobo’s enduring place as one of the Niger Delta’s most historic and influential kingdoms.

Opobo Hosts The ‘World’ As Kingdom Crowns King Charles …Jonathan, First-class Monarchs, Politicians, Dignitaries Converge On Historic Kingdom

The Atlantic Bell
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For a few days, the ancient kingdom of Opobo is set to become the gathering point for royalty, politics, culture and history as visitors from across Nigeria and beyond converge on the historic coastal community for the coronation of His Royal Majesty, King Charles Douglas MacPepple Jaja, Jeki VI, the Amanyanabo of Opobo Kingdom, on Saturday.

From the Niger Delta and other parts of Nigeria to the international community, the kingdom is already witnessing an unusual wave of visitors, as traditional rulers, political leaders, captains of industry, academics, cultural enthusiasts and other distinguished guests make their way to Opobo for what is expected to be one of the most significant traditional ceremonies in the region this year.
Among the eminent personalities expected at the historic occasion is former President Goodluck Jonathan, alongside first-class traditional rulers from different parts of the country and prominent members of the political class.

For Opobo, however, the ceremony represents more than the installation of another monarch. It is the culmination of a process that began with a keenly contested royal election and the return of a new custodian to the throne associated with one of the most remarkable figures in the history of the Niger Delta.

The journey to Saturday’s coronation formally began with the royal election of December 31, 2025, when Charles Douglas MacPepple Jaja emerged victorious over other contestants to become the new king of Opobo. His emergence marked another chapter in the continuing history of the Jaja monarchy, founded on the legacy of King Jaja of Opobo, whose name remains inseparable from the political, commercial and cultural history of the Niger Delta.

Months after his emergence, the kingdom has been preparing for the elaborate ceremonies that will formally usher the new monarch into the full traditional responsibilities of the throne.

The activities leading to the coronation began last Friday, setting off a succession of traditional, cultural and social events that have continued to draw visitors into the kingdom.

Since then, Opobo has assumed the atmosphere of a kingdom preparing for a historic moment.
Boats and vehicles carrying guests have continued to make their way into the kingdom, while members of the various houses, traditional institutions and organising committees put finishing touches to the arrangements for the grand ceremony.

The growing influx has also provided visitors with an opportunity to experience the distinctive traditional system of Opobo, a kingdom whose history is deeply intertwined with the story of the Niger Delta and the development of commerce along the region’s waterways.

The coronation is therefore expected to be both a royal ceremony and a celebration of heritage. At the heart of the occasion is the installation of Charles Douglas MacPepple Jaja as Jeki VI, succeeding a line of monarchs who have occupied the Opobo throne since the establishment of the kingdom in the 19th century.

His coronation is expected to bring together the different strands of Opobo’s identity, its royal institution, ancient traditions, maritime heritage, political history and its enduring links with communities across the Niger Delta and beyond.

The presence of former President Jonathan and eminent traditional rulers is also expected to add national significance to the ceremony, with the gathering providing an opportunity for interaction among the country’s traditional institutions, political leadership and cultural stakeholders.

For residents and sons and daughters of Opobo, the occasion is also a moment of collective pride. The kingdom, often described as one of the jewels of the Niger Delta, has retained a distinctive identity shaped by its history, waterways, trading traditions and the legacy of King Jaja.

That history is expected to be prominently reflected in the coronation ceremonies, as the kingdom showcases its traditional institutions, cultural expressions and royal heritage to visitors arriving from different parts of the world.
As the d-day is here today, the question is no longer whether Opobo will attract attention, but how far the kingdom’s story will travel beyond its waterways.

For one weekend, the eyes of Nigeria, and those of many visitors from outside the country, will turn towards Opobo. And at the centre of it all will be Charles Douglas MacPepple Jaja, whose journey from the December 31, 2025 royal contest to the throne reaches its defining moment on Saturday, when the ancient kingdom formally crowns its new king.

Opobo Hosts The ‘World’ As Kingdom Crowns King Charles

The Atlantic Bell
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0
Opobo Hosts The ‘World’ As Kingdom Crowns King Charles
  • Jonathan, First-class Monarchs, Politicians, Dignitaries Converge On Historic Kingdom

For a few days, the ancient kingdom of Opobo is set to become the gathering point for royalty, politics, culture and history as visitors from across Nigeria and beyond converge on the historic coastal community for the coronation of His Royal Majesty, King Charles Douglas MacPepple Jaja, Jeki VI, the Amanyanabo of Opobo Kingdom, on Saturday.

From the Niger Delta and other parts of Nigeria to the international community, the kingdom is already witnessing an unusual wave of visitors, as traditional rulers, political leaders, captains of industry, academics, cultural enthusiasts and other distinguished guests make their way to Opobo for what is expected to be one of the most significant traditional ceremonies in the region this year.
Among the eminent personalities expected at the historic occasion is former President Goodluck Jonathan, alongside first-class traditional rulers from different parts of the country and prominent members of the political class.

For Opobo, however, the ceremony represents more than the installation of another monarch. It is the culmination of a process that began with a keenly contested royal election and the return of a new custodian to the throne associated with one of the most remarkable figures in the history of the Niger Delta.

The journey to Saturday’s coronation formally began with the royal election of December 31, 2025, when Charles Douglas MacPepple Jaja emerged victorious over other contestants to become the new king of Opobo. His emergence marked another chapter in the continuing history of the Jaja monarchy, founded on the legacy of King Jaja of Opobo, whose name remains inseparable from the political, commercial and cultural history of the Niger Delta.

Months after his emergence, the kingdom has been preparing for the elaborate ceremonies that will formally usher the new monarch into the full traditional responsibilities of the throne.

The activities leading to the coronation began last Friday, setting off a succession of traditional, cultural and social events that have continued to draw visitors into the kingdom.

Since then, Opobo has assumed the atmosphere of a kingdom preparing for a historic moment.
Boats and vehicles carrying guests have continued to make their way into the kingdom, while members of the various houses, traditional institutions and organising committees put finishing touches to the arrangements for the grand ceremony.

The growing influx has also provided visitors with an opportunity to experience the distinctive traditional system of Opobo, a kingdom whose history is deeply intertwined with the story of the Niger Delta and the development of commerce along the region’s waterways.

The coronation is therefore expected to be both a royal ceremony and a celebration of heritage. At the heart of the occasion is the installation of Charles Douglas MacPepple Jaja as Jeki VI, succeeding a line of monarchs who have occupied the Opobo throne since the establishment of the kingdom in the 19th century.

His coronation is expected to bring together the different strands of Opobo’s identity, its royal institution, ancient traditions, maritime heritage, political history and its enduring links with communities across the Niger Delta and beyond.

The presence of former President Jonathan and eminent traditional rulers is also expected to add national significance to the ceremony, with the gathering providing an opportunity for interaction among the country’s traditional institutions, political leadership and cultural stakeholders.

For residents and sons and daughters of Opobo, the occasion is also a moment of collective pride. The kingdom, often described as one of the jewels of the Niger Delta, has retained a distinctive identity shaped by its history, waterways, trading traditions and the legacy of King Jaja.

That history is expected to be prominently reflected in the coronation ceremonies, as the kingdom showcases its traditional institutions, cultural expressions and royal heritage to visitors arriving from different parts of the world.
As the d-day is here today, the question is no longer whether Opobo will attract attention, but how far the kingdom’s story will travel beyond its waterways.

For one weekend, the eyes of Nigeria, and those of many visitors from outside the country, will turn towards Opobo. And at the centre of it all will be Charles Douglas MacPepple Jaja, whose journey from the December 31, 2025 royal contest to the throne reaches its defining moment on Saturday, when the ancient kingdom formally crowns its new king.

Dappa Takes Helm At PABOD As Acting General Manager, Signals Fresh Push For Investment Growth

The Atlantic Bell
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Sofiri Gladstone Dappa (right) receiving the handover note at the ceremony.

PABOD Finance and Investment Company Limited, the Rivers State Government-owned investment company, has entered a new phase of leadership with the assumption of office of Estate Surveyor Sofiri Gladstone Dappa as Acting General Manager.

Dappa officially took over from the outgoing Acting General Manager, Dr Minafuro Iyisonye, during a handover ceremony held on Friday at the company’s headquarters in Port Harcourt, with members of management, staff and other stakeholders in attendance.

His appointment comes at a time when renewed efforts are being directed at repositioning PABOD as a stronger investment vehicle capable of enhancing asset utilisation, expanding commercial opportunities and contributing more effectively to the economic development agenda of Rivers State.

Before his appointment, Dappa served as a Director of PF Sandcrete Industries Limited, a subsidiary of PABOD Finance and Investment Company, bringing experience from both the real estate and investment sectors into his new role.

A Registered Estate Surveyor and Valuer, Dappa possesses a multidisciplinary background that spans estate surveying, valuation, geography, environmental studies and transportation, with expertise considered relevant to infrastructure, property development and investment management.

Sofiri Gladstone Dappa.

He holds a Bachelor of Technology degree in Estate Management from Rivers State University of Science and Technology, now Rivers State University. He also earned a Postgraduate Diploma in Geography and Environmental Studies, a Master’s degree in Transport Geography, and is currently completing a doctoral programme in Transport Geography at Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Port Harcourt.

Dappa is a member of the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers (NIESV) and the Chartered Institute of Transport Administration of Nigeria (CIoTA).

Beyond his professional career, he is a member of Rotary International and the Port Harcourt Club 1928, where he is actively involved in golfing.

Norway Woos Rivers Businessmen, Seeks Deeper Trade, Investment Partnership

The Atlantic Bell
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Rivers State Deputy Governor, Prof. (Mrs.) Ngozi Nma Odu (Middle), with the Norway’s Ambassador to Nigeria, H. E. Svein Baera (4th Left), the Chief of Staff, Government House, Barr. Sunny Ewule (4th Right), the Head of Civil Service, Dr. Inyingi Brown (2nd Left) and others shortly after a Courtesy Visit at the Government House, Port Harcourt on the 24th Sept. 2026.

The Norwegian Government has intensified efforts to deepen its economic engagement with Rivers State, moving beyond its century-old stockfish trade with Nigeria to court Rivers businessmen for broader investments in oil and gas, healthcare, education and other strategic sectors.

This emerged on Thursday when the Norwegian Ambassador to Nigeria, Svein Bæra, led a delegation to Government House, Port Harcourt, where he held talks with Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, on expanding commercial ties between Norway and the state.

Represented by his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Nma Odu, the governor said Rivers was ready to strengthen trade and investment relations with Norway, describing the nearly 100-year stockfish trade as a strong foundation for wider economic cooperation.

He said trade thrives on mutual benefit and noted that the longstanding commercial relationship between the two countries could serve as a gateway to partnerships in other sectors.
“That could be an entry point into us collaborating in other aspects of international trade,” he said.

The governor urged the Norwegian delegation to meet with the Port Harcourt Chamber of Commerce and other business associations to exchange ideas with Rivers entrepreneurs on available investment opportunities and future prospects.

Welcoming the delegation on behalf of the government and people of Rivers State, Fubara expressed optimism that the visit would mark the beginning of a stronger economic relationship between the state and Norway.

Speaking earlier, Ambassador Bæra said the Norwegian delegation was in Rivers State to engage directly with businessmen and investors, particularly stockfish importers, while exploring new opportunities in the oil and gas sector.

He said discussions with key stakeholders would help identify areas of shared economic interest and strengthen existing trade ties, signalling Norway’s intention to broaden its commercial footprint in Rivers beyond the traditional stockfish market.

Fubara Raises Judiciary Overhead By 50%, Reaffirms Commitment To Judicial Autonomy

The Atlantic Bell
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Rivers State Deputy Governor, Prof. (Mrs.) Ngozi Nma Odu, exchanging pleasantries with the Speaker, Rivers State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Martins Chike Amaewhule and the State Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Simeon Chibuzor Amadi, shortly after the 2026-2027 Legal Year Thanksgiving and Re-dedication Service at the Cathedral Church of St. Paul, Rebisi, Port Harcourt on the 24th Sept. 2026.

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has approved a 50 per cent increase in the overhead allocation to the state’s judiciary, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to judicial independence, institutional autonomy and improved justice delivery.

The governor announced the decision during the Special Court Session marking the commencement of the 2026/2027 Legal Year at the Ceremonial Court Hall of the High Court Complex in Port Harcourt on Thursday.

Represented by his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Nma Odu, Fubara said an independent and well-resourced judiciary remains indispensable to peace, stability and socio-economic development, assuring judges and magistrates of continued government support in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities.

He described the opening of the legal year as a moment for reflection, accountability and renewed dedication to the administration of justice, while commending the leadership of the Chief Judge of Rivers State, Justice Simeon Chibuzor Amadi, for preserving the integrity and dignity of the judicial system.

Fubara maintained that public confidence in the courts is essential to strengthening trust between citizens and government, noting that the judiciary remains a critical pillar of democratic governance.
He, however, acknowledged persistent challenges confronting the justice sector, including inadequate infrastructure and manpower, rising caseloads, case management difficulties and delays in the administration of justice.

The governor assured judicial officers that his administration would continue to respect the judiciary’s constitutional autonomy and provide the resources required for it to function without interference.

He disclosed that the newly approved 50 per cent increase in overhead expenditure, made possible through the 2026 Appropriation Law, is aimed at meeting the operational needs of the judiciary, improving the welfare of judicial officers and supporting training for judges, magistrates and court personnel.

In his address, Justice Amadi praised Fubara for upholding the rule of law and allowing the judiciary to function effectively as the third arm of government.

He described the courts as a sanctuary where the weak must find protection and the powerful remain accountable under the law.

The Chief Judge urged judicial officers to remain faithful to their oath of office, saying the ideal judge should be “fair without being harsh, patient without being passive, and independent without losing sight of the responsibility that accompanies judicial authority.”

He added that strengthening manpower and improving conditions of service would enhance the administration of justice and better equip the judiciary to serve the people.

Also speaking, President of the Customary Court of Appeal, Justice Ihemnacho Wilfred Chibuzor, renewed his commitment to service and integrity, arguing that a motivated and respected judiciary is vital to promoting integrity and curbing corruption.

Activities marking the commencement of the 2026/2027 Legal Year began earlier with a Thanksgiving and Rededication Service at the Cathedral Church of St. Paul, Rebisi, Port Harcourt.

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