Fubara Approves 50% Increase in Rivers Judiciary Overhead
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the independence, autonomy and effective functioning of the State Judiciary, assuring judges and magistrates of continued support to strengthen justice delivery.
Governor Fubara made the commitment on Thursday, September 24, 2026, at the Special Court Session marking the commencement of the 2026/2027 Legal Year at the Ceremonial Court Hall, High Court Complex, Port Harcourt.
The Governor, who was represented by his Deputy, Prof. Ngozi Nma Odu, commended the Judiciary for its contributions to peace, stability and socio-economic development through the administration of justice.
He congratulated the Chief Judge of Rivers State, Hon. Justice Simeon Chibuzor Amadi, and the entire Judiciary on the commencement of the new legal year, describing the occasion as an opportunity for reflection, accountability and renewed commitment to the administration of justice.
Fubara also commended the leadership of the State Judiciary for its efforts to sustain the independence, integrity and dignity of the judicial system.
According to him, the Judiciary remains a critical component of government and a cornerstone of peace, stability and development, stressing that public confidence in the courts is essential to strengthening trust between government and citizens.
The Governor acknowledged the contributions of the Judiciary to peace, stability and socio-economic development through the settlement of disputes, while noting that the institution continues to face challenges, including inadequate infrastructure and manpower, heavy caseloads, case-management difficulties and delays in the administration of justice.
He assured the Judiciary that his administration would continue to respect its constitutional autonomy and provide the necessary resources for it to discharge its responsibilities without interference.
Fubara disclosed that, over the past three years, his administration had supported the transformation of the Judiciary through improved access to justice, the appointment of additional judges and magistrates, the digitalisation of case management and the strengthening of institutional frameworks.
He further disclosed that, following the passage of the 2026 Appropriation Law, his administration had approved a 50 percent increase in overhead expenditure for the State Judiciary and its institutions.
According to him, the increase is aimed at meeting operational needs, improving judicial welfare and supporting training for judicial officers and staff.
In his address, the Chief Judge of Rivers State, Hon. Justice Simeon Amadi, commended Governor Fubara for his commitment to the rule of law and for allowing the Judiciary to effectively discharge its constitutional responsibilities as the third arm of government.
Justice Amadi stressed that the Judiciary must remain a sanctuary of justice where the weak can seek protection and the powerful are held accountable under the law.
He urged judicial officers to remain faithful to their Judicial Oath, describing the ideal judicial officer as one who is fair without being harsh, patient without being passive, and independent while remaining conscious of the responsibility that accompanies judicial authority.
The Chief Judge also emphasised the need to strengthen the Judiciary through improved manpower and better conditions of service, noting that these would enhance the effective administration of justice and ensure that the judicial system is adequately equipped to meet the needs of the people.
On his part, the President of the Customary Court of Appeal, Hon. Justice Ihemnacho Wilfred Chibuzor, recommitted himself to service and integrity, noting that a well-motivated and respected Judiciary would promote integrity and help curb corruption.
The 2026/2027 Legal Year was earlier kick-started with a Thanksgiving and Rededication Service held at the Cathedral Church of St. Paul, Rebisi, Port Harcourt..
