Rivers Assembly Rejects N6bn for PAMO University Funding

The Rivers State House of Assembly rejected a N6 billion allocation to PAMO University of Medical Sciences during the passage of the Rivers State 2026 Appropriation Bill. Speaker Martin Amaewhule raised concerns about the university's management and accountability of funds at a ceremony in Port Harcourt on Thursday, shortly before Governor Siminalayi Fubara signed the N1.84 trillion budget into law.

Amaewhule stated that the Assembly was dissatisfied with the university management's explanations regarding the use of allocated funds. He emphasized the need for greater transparency when public funds are allocated to a private institution.

The Assembly sought information on the number of beneficiaries of the government’s funding and its impact on the state's medical workforce. Notably, PAMO University did not send a delegation to the budget defense despite being invited to explain its activities and funding.

The Speaker reiterated that the Assembly's concerns should not be seen as a condemnation of the university, which plays a vital role in providing medical education and services.