Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, on Thursday presented a total budget of N998.37 billion for the 2026 fiscal year to the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, pledging to deepen economic growth and consolidate on the achievements of his administration.
Presenting the “Budget of Assured Prosperity II”, Governor Diri said the financial plan was crafted to sustain the tempo of development across all sectors and ensure that the dividends of democracy reach every community in the state.
“The 2026 Budget of Assured Prosperity II is a continuation of our vision to accelerate development, promote job creation, and improve the welfare of our people,” the Governor stated. “We are committed to building on the solid foundation we have laid in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and security.”
The budget, totaling N998,371,313,943.04, aims to stimulate economic diversification through investments in power, agriculture, and the state’s emerging blue economy.
Diri said the administration’s focus for the year would include expanding road connectivity, supporting local businesses, and strengthening youth empowerment initiatives.
“We are consolidating on our progress to make Bayelsa a model of inclusive growth and fiscal responsibility,” the Governor added. “Every project, every naira in this budget, is tied to improving the lives of Bayelsans and creating lasting prosperity.”
Deputy Governor Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, who accompanied the Governor, commended the partnership between the executive and the legislature, noting that such cooperation has been key to the state’s stability and growth.
“We appreciate the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Abraham Ingobere, and all distinguished members of the House for their continued collaboration in advancing policies that serve our people,” Ewhrudjakpo said.
In his response, the Speaker of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abraham Ingobere, assured the executive of the lawmakers’ readiness to expedite consideration of the bill to ensure timely passage.
“This budget reflects the aspirations of our people. We will give it the legislative attention it deserves to sustain the prosperity drive of this administration,” Ingobere said.
