The Bayelsa State House of Assembly has approved the 2026 Appropriation Bill for second reading, with members across party lines praising Governor Douye Diri for prioritising agriculture, security, community development and major infrastructure.
Tagged the “Budget of Accelerated Infrastructural Development and Economic Growth,” the N713 billion spending plan targets the speedy completion of several flagship projects. These include the three Senatorial Roads, the 60MW Gbarain Gas Turbine Power Plant, the nine-storey Nembe–Brass Secretariat Annex and the 25,000-capacity Yenagoa Sports Complex.
Opening debate on the bill, Majority Leader Rt. Hon. Monday-Bubou Edwin Obolo described the budget as realistic, achievable and attractive to investors. He noted that the state’s growing emphasis on stable electricity supply has already drawn investment interests and partnerships from both local and international firms.
Contributions from Hon. Michael Ogbere (Ekeremor I), Hon. Dr. Daniel Charles (Brass I), Hon. Bernard Kenebai (Sagbama II) and Hon. Tare Porri (Ekeremor II) also highlighted the administration’s decision to channel about 65% of the budget to capital projects. They said the move reflects a deliberate commitment to impactful and people-focused development.
Following the debate, Speaker Rt. Hon. Abraham Ingobere referred the bill to the House Committee on Finance and Appropriation for detailed examination, directing the committee to submit its report within two weeks.
The smooth and unanimous second-reading passage signals strong legislative support for Governor Diri’s Prosperity Administration and maintains the state’s momentum toward sustained infrastructural and economic growth.
