Northern Christians question N1.9bn church allocation in N8bn religious budget

The Northern Christian Association (NCA) has called on the Federal Government to explain what it described as a significant disparity in the allocation of about N8.05 billion for church and mosque projects in the 2026 Appropriation Bill, saying the imbalance raises concerns over fairness and equal treatment.

The association said it was not opposed to government support for religious projects but insisted that such funding should comply with the constitutional principles of equity, transparency and justice.

In a statement issued on Monday by its Chairman, Rev. Joseph Hayab, the NCA said reports indicated that approximately N1.91 billion was allocated to seven church-related projects, while about N6.14 billion was earmarked for 52 mosque-related projects in the 2026 budget.

According to the association, the disparity has reinforced concerns among many Christians over what it described as a pattern of unequal treatment and selective implementation of government policies.

Calls for fairness

Mr Hayab said persistent inequality in government decisions continues to fuel division and distrust among Nigerians.

“How long will Nigerians continue to read stories that expose the hypocrisy of our leaders?

“The partiality, lack of equity and unequal treatment of citizens by government and political leaders are among the major factors responsible for division, distrust, segregation and the absence of genuine unity and love among Nigerians,” he said.

He added that while Christians have continued to exercise restraint in the interest of national peace and unity, successive governments have often mistaken that patience for weakness.

Constitution guarantees equality

The NCA argued that the Nigerian Constitution recognises all citizens as equal before the law and urged the government to avoid actions that could create the impression of preferential treatment for any religious group.

“Our constitution recognises every Nigerian as equal before the law, while the teachings of all religions discourage unfair treatment of children, women, family members and fellow human beings.

“Government should, therefore, not be seen to promote policies that suggest preferential treatment for one religious group over another,” Hayab stated.

Demand for explanation

The association stressed that its position should not be interpreted as opposition to Islam, Christianity or collaboration between government and faith-based organisations.

Instead, it said public funds allocated to religious projects should be distributed transparently and fairly to avoid perceptions of bias.

“NCA is challenging the Federal Government to explain these abnormalities. Government should not establish a system that creates division among citizens or gives the impression that one religious community is more important than another.

“Instead, it should initiate programmes and policies that unite Nigerians and strengthen our collective national identity,” the statement added.

The association further urged the Federal Government to review the allocations in line with constitutional principles of fairness, equity and equal treatment, maintaining that budgetary decisions should promote national unity and strengthen public confidence in government.