Northern Christian Association questions the reported disparity in the 2026 budget, calling for transparency and equal treatment in public spending

The Northern Christian Association (NCA), led by its Chairman, Rev Joseph Hayab, has demanded an explanation from the Federal Government over what it described as a wide disparity in the allocation of about ₦8.05 billion for church and mosque projects in the 2026 Appropriation Bill.

Also read: Niger Christians urge Bago to pick Christian running mate to avoid protest votes

The association raised the concern in a statement issued on Monday, saying the reported difference in funding raised serious questions about fairness, transparency and equal treatment of citizens.

According to the NCA, approximately ₦1.91 billion was allocated to seven church-related projects, while about ₦6.14 billion was earmarked for 52 mosque-related projects in the 2026 budget.

The association stressed that its objection was not directed at government support for religious projects but at what it considered an apparent imbalance in the distribution of public funds.

Hayab said the reported figures had deepened concerns among some Christians over what he described as a recurring pattern of unequal treatment and selective implementation of government policies.

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

“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.”

The NCA chairman said Christians had continued to exercise restraint in the interest of national peace and unity, but warned that such patience should not be mistaken for weakness.

The association argued that perceived discrimination in the distribution of public resources could have far-reaching consequences for social cohesion in a country where religious identity remains a sensitive issue.

Hayab said the Nigerian Constitution recognises citizens as equal before the law and argued that government policies should reflect that principle.

“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,” he said.

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

The NCA clarified that its position should not be interpreted as opposition to Islam, Christianity or cooperation between government and faith-based organisations.

Instead, the association said its concern was about ensuring that any public spending on religious projects was guided by clear criteria and implemented in a transparent and balanced manner.

The group also warned that a failure to address perceived disparities could weaken public confidence in government institutions and further deepen divisions among Nigerians.

“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,” the statement said.

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

The association urged the Federal Government to review the reported allocations and ensure that budgetary decisions were consistent with the constitutional principles of fairness, equity and equal treatment.

The call comes amid broader public scrutiny of the 2026 Appropriation Bill and the inclusion of projects linked to religious institutions in the national budget.

While government funding of faith-related projects has periodically generated debate, critics have often questioned the criteria used to determine which projects receive public resources.

The NCA’s intervention adds a fresh religious and governance dimension to the debate, with the association insisting that the most important issue is not whether government should support such projects, but whether the process is transparent, equitable and capable of commanding public trust.

For the association, the reported disparity in the 2026 budget represents an opportunity for the Federal Government to provide clarity and demonstrate that public resources are being distributed without religious preference.

Also read: Trump claims US action ended killings of Christians in Nigeria

The group said a transparent explanation and, where necessary, a review of the allocations would help strengthen confidence in government and support the broader goal of national unity.