Northern Christians query N1.9bn church share in N8bn religious budget

The Northern Christian Association (NCA) is demanding an explanation from Nigeria's Federal Government regarding a substantial imbalance in the proposed 2026 budget for religious projects. Reports indicate that approximately N1.91 billion is allocated for seven church-related projects, while N6.14 billion is earmarked for 52 mosque-related projects.

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

Rev. Joseph Hayab, Chairman of the NCA, stated in a release that while the association does not oppose government support for religious initiatives, such funding must adhere to constitutional principles of fairness, transparency, and justice. He expressed concern that this disparity reinforces existing worries among Christians about unequal treatment and selective policy implementation.

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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.

"How long will Nigerians continue to read stories that expose the hypocrisy of our leaders?" Hayab questioned. He argued that partiality and unequal treatment by leaders are major contributors to division, distrust, and a lack of genuine unity in Nigeria. The NCA cautioned that while Christians have shown restraint for national peace, this patience should not be mistaken for weakness.

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

The association stressed that its stance is not an opposition to Islam or Christianity but a call for equitable distribution of public resources. They urged the government to avoid policies that suggest preferential treatment for any religious group and to initiate programs that unite Nigerians, rather than creating division or implying one faith is more important than another.

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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.