The Bible Society of Nigeria plans increased funding for Bible translation, sign language projects and humanitarian outreach despite economic challenges

The Bible Society of Nigeria has proposed a ₦1.07 billion budget for 2027 to expand Bible translation projects, strengthen humanitarian outreach and improve access to Scriptures across the country, despite prevailing economic challenges.

The proposal was disclosed on Friday in a statement signed by the society’s Manager of Media and Public Relations, Benjamin Mordi, who said the planned expenditure reflects the organisation’s commitment to serving communities through Scripture translation and social intervention programmes.

According to the statement, the proposed budget represents a 14 per cent increase over the ₦943 million approved for 2025, underscoring the society’s growing investment in language development, accessibility and community support.

A significant portion of the proposed budget, amounting to ₦216.6 million, has been allocated to ongoing Bible translation projects in several Nigerian languages.

The society disclosed that ₦54.2 million of that amount would be dedicated to the Nigerian Sign Language Bible project, an initiative designed to improve access to the Scriptures for members of the deaf community.

It noted that completing a full Bible translation project requires an investment of at least ₦150 million, highlighting the financial demands involved in translating, reviewing and publishing the Bible in indigenous languages.

Beyond translation, the society proposed ₦162.1 million for its Macedonian Call intervention programme, which provides Bibles alongside humanitarian assistance, including food, clothing, bedding and educational support for internally displaced persons and underserved communities across Nigeria.

The statement also revealed that ₦102 million had already been spent during the first quarter of the year on Bible translation and outreach initiatives, demonstrating the organisation’s continued investment in its core programmes.

The General Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the Bible Society of Nigeria, Pastor Samuel Sanusi, said the proposed budget reflects the society’s determination to continue its mission despite the country’s difficult economic climate.

“Our passion for the spiritual and social transformation of Nigerians keeps us committed to making the Word of God available and affordable, despite the harsh operating environment,” Sanusi said.

He added that the organisation would continue investing in initiatives that promote spiritual development while supporting the broader welfare of vulnerable Nigerians.

“Our commitment goes beyond Bible distribution. We will continue to invest in programmes that promote spiritual growth and improve the overall well-being of Nigerians,” he said.

Founded to translate, publish and distribute the Bible in languages understood by Nigerians, the Bible Society of Nigeria has over the years expanded its work to include literacy programmes, advocacy for indigenous language preservation and humanitarian interventions for vulnerable communities.

Its Bible translation projects have played a significant role in making the Scriptures accessible to diverse ethnic and linguistic groups across the country.

The proposed 2027 budget reflects the organisation’s continued emphasis on combining faith-based outreach with social support, while addressing the growing demand for translated Scriptures and assistance for communities affected by displacement and economic hardship.