Deputy Speaker's office denies N1bn church instrument allocation, cites youth program

The office of Nigeria's Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives has refuted claims that N1 billion was allocated in the proposed 2026 budget for musical instruments for churches in the Bende Federal Constituency. The office stated that the report is misleading.

In a statement released by the Deputy Speaker's Chief Press Secretary, Levinus Nwabughiogu, the provision is part of a broader Youth Re-orientation and Social Support Programme. This initiative will be implemented through faith-based organizations across the constituency. The actual allocation, after Value Added Tax (VAT) and other statutory deductions, is N780 million. The funds are not exclusively for musical instruments.

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The proposed allocation is actually N780 million after VAT and other tax deductions. It is earmarked as a Youth Re-orientation and Social Support Programme delivered with an evangelistic approach through faith-based organisations in Bende Federal Constituency.

The program is designed to support youth engagement in churches by providing equipment like evangelical musical instruments and public address systems. These tools will aid campaigns against drug abuse, sexual offenses, violent crimes, and other social vices. The statement emphasized that nation-building requires investment in the character and value systems of citizens, not just physical infrastructure.

According to the office, the Bende Federal Constituency includes 13 electoral wards and over 200 churches. The first phase aims to reach about 130 churches, with each receiving between N5 million and N6 million for youth-focused community outreach. The office also noted that the 2026 Appropriation Act is not yet in effect, and no funds have been disbursed. Beneficiary churches will be contacted only after budget approval and fund release.

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Nation-building must go beyond roads and physical infrastructure. Government must also invest in building the character and value system of the people who use the infrastructure through various value delivery platforms.