Rivers Assembly rejects N6bn allocation to PAMO University

The Rivers State 2026 Appropriation Bill, which faced numerous controversies during its passage, included a request for N6 billion to be allocated to PAMO University of Medical Sciences. Speaker of the Assembly, Martin Amaewhule, expressed his concerns about the management and accountability of funds given to the institution at a ceremony held at the State Government House in Port Harcourt.

Amaewhule pointed out that the Assembly had made adjustments to the budget after scrutinizing the university's proposal and presentations made during the budget defence, particularly concerning the university's transparency in using state funds. He clarified that the Assembly's dissatisfaction was not a condemnation of the university but rather a call for greater accountability regarding the allocation of public funds to a private institution.

Amaewhule emphasized the need for transparency and information on the number of beneficiaries of the funds and the impact they have had on strengthening the state's medical workforce. The university reportedly did not attend the budget defence despite being invited, further fueling Amaewhule's concerns. As a result, the Assembly reduced the amount initially proposed for the institution and redirected part of the funds to the Primary Health Care Management Board for rehabilitation work in health facilities.