Only N1.91bn Was Earmarked For 7 Church-Related Projects, While About N6.14bn Was Allocated to 52 Mosque-Related Projects --- Rev. Joseph Hayab

Only N1.91bn Was Earmarked For 7 Church-Related Projects, While About N6.14bn Was Allocated to 52 Mosque-Related Projects --- Rev. Joseph Hayab

The Northern Christian Association (NCA) has asked the Federal Government to explain the disparity in allocation for church and mosque projects in the 2026 Appropriation Bill.

In a statement on Monday by its Chairman, Rev. Joseph Hayab, the association said reports showed N1.91bn was earmarked for 7 church-related projects, while about N6.14bn was allocated to 52 mosque-related projects, out of about N8.05bn total for religious projects.

Hayab said the group is not opposed to government support for religious projects but said it must be fair and transparent.

"How long will Nigerians continue to read stories that expose the hypocrisy of our leaders? 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," he said.

He said Christians have exercised restraint for peace but government mistakes patience for weakness, and warned that perceived discrimination erodes public trust.

"Our constitution recognises every Nigerian as equal before the law, while the teachings of all religions discourage unfair treatment... Government should, therefore, not be seen to promote policies that suggest preferential treatment for one religious group over another," he added.

The NCA urged government to review the allocations in line with fairness, equity and equal treatment to promote national unity.