The Northern Christian Association (NCA) has asked the Federal Government to explain what it described as a significant disparity in the allocation of funds for church and mosque projects in the proposed 2026 national budget, saying the difference raises serious concerns about fairness, equity and equal treatment of Nigerians.
The association said while it was not opposed to government support for faith-based projects, such interventions must comply with the principles of justice, transparency and equality enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution.
In a statement issued on Monday by its Chairman, Rev. Joseph Hayab, the NCA expressed concern over reports that about ₦8.05 billion was earmarked for religious projects in the 2026 Appropriation Bill.
According to the association, about ₦1.91 billion was allocated to seven church-related projects, while approximately ₦6.14 billion was budgeted for 52 mosque-related projects.
The association argued that the difference in the allocations had reinforced concerns among many Christians, particularly in Northern Nigeria, over what it described as a pattern of unequal treatment in the implementation of government policies.
Hayab said the issue went beyond religion and touched on the need for fairness in the management of public resources.
He noted that government actions should promote national unity rather than create the impression that one religious group receives greater attention than another.
“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.”
According to him, many of the divisions currently affecting the country are fuelled by perceptions that government policies do not always treat citizens equally.
He said the Federal Government should be careful not to adopt policies or budgetary decisions that could deepen existing religious or regional tensions.
Hayab added that Christians had continued to exercise patience and restraint in the interest of peace and national unity despite concerns over what they considered unequal treatment.
He warned, however, that successive governments should not mistake that patience for weakness or indifference.
The NCA said Nigerians had repeatedly witnessed situations that raised questions about consistency and fairness in governance.
It argued that public confidence in government institutions would continue to decline if citizens perceived that official decisions favoured one group over another.
“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,” Hayab said.
“Government should, therefore, not be seen to promote policies that suggest preferential treatment for one religious group over another.”
The association stressed that its statement should not be interpreted as opposition to Islam, Christianity or government collaboration with religious organisations.
Instead, it said its position was based on the need for fairness, accountability and equal treatment in the use of public funds.
According to the NCA, if government chooses to support religious projects through budgetary allocations, the process should be transparent and balanced to avoid creating the impression that one faith enjoys greater recognition or official support than another.
The association therefore challenged the Federal Government to provide a detailed explanation for the disparity in the proposed allocations.
“NCA is challenging the Federal Government to explain these abnormalities,” the statement said.
“Government should not establish a system that creates division among citizens or gives the impression that one religious community is more important than another.
“Instead, it should initiate programmes and policies that unite Nigerians and strengthen our collective national identity.”
The issue of government funding for religious activities has generated public debate in Nigeria for many years.
Successive administrations at the federal and state levels have provided financial support for various religious programmes, including pilgrimages, construction and renovation of worship centres, and grants to faith-based organisations.
Supporters of such interventions argue that religious organisations play important roles in education, healthcare, humanitarian services and community development.
They also note that both Christian and Muslim organisations have historically benefited from different forms of government assistance.
However, critics have repeatedly questioned whether public funds should be used for religious purposes in a country whose Constitution guarantees freedom of religion and prohibits the adoption of any state religion.
The controversy comes as the National Assembly continues consideration of the 2026 Appropriation Bill.
Lawmakers are expected to scrutinise budget proposals from ministries, departments and agencies before the final passage of the budget.
Budget allocations often undergo adjustments during the legislative process as committees review projects and funding requests from different sectors.
The Federal Government has consistently stated that its policies are guided by the Constitution and are designed to serve the interests of all Nigerians regardless of religion, ethnicity or region.
As debate over the 2026 budget continues, the NCA has urged the government to clarify the basis for the proposed religious allocations and ensure that public resources are distributed fairly.