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.