Northern Christian Association Seeks FG’s Explanation Over Religious Project Allocations in 2026 Budget

By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna

The Northern Christian Association (NCA) has called on the Federal Government to explain what it described as disparities in funding for church and mosque projects contained in the proposed 2026 Appropriation Bill.

In a statement signed by its Chairman, Rev. Joseph John Hayab, the association said reports indicated that about ₦1.91 billion was allocated to seven church-related projects, while approximately ₦6.14 billion was earmarked for 52 mosque-related projects.

The NCA said it was not opposed to government support for religious projects but argued that such allocations should reflect the constitutional principles of fairness, transparency and equal treatment of all citizens, regardless of religious affiliation.

According to the association, the reported disparity has raised concerns among Christians about equity in public spending and the implementation of government policies. Hayab urged the Federal Government to clarify the basis for the allocations, stating that public policies and budgetary decisions should promote national unity and inspire public confidence.

“Government should not establish a system that creates division among citizens or gives the impression that one religious community is more important than another,” the statement said.

The association maintained that its position should not be interpreted as opposition to government engagement with faith-based organisations but as a call for balanced and transparent allocation of public resources. As of the time of filing this report, the Federal Government had not publicly responded to the concerns raised by the association.