By Lizzy Chirkpi
The Northern Christian Association (NCA) has called on the Federal Government to explain what it described as a glaring imbalance in the allocation of about ₦8.05 billion for church and mosque projects in the 2026 Appropriation Act, warning that the disparity raises serious concerns about equity, fairness and equal treatment of Nigerians, regardless of religious affiliation.
The association said it was not opposed to government support for religious projects but insisted that such interventions must be guided by the constitutional principles of justice, transparency and equality, rather than policies capable of creating the impression of discrimination or preferential treatment.
In a statement signed by its Chairman, Rev. Joseph John Hayab, on Monday, the association cited reports indicating that about ₦1.91 billion was allocated to seven church-related projects, while ₦6.14 billion was earmarked for 52 mosque-related projects in the 2026 budget.
According to the NCA, the disparity has reinforced concerns among many Christians over what it described as a persistent pattern of unequal treatment, selective implementation of government policies and double standards in public affairs.
The association noted that Christians across the country had continued to exercise restraint in the interest of national peace and unity but lamented that successive governments had often mistaken such patience for weakness.
It warned that actions perceived as partial or discriminatory were deepening national divisions and eroding public confidence in government.
“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.
“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. Government should therefore not be seen to promote policies that suggest preferential treatment for one religious group over another.”
The NCA stressed that its position should not be interpreted as opposition to Islam, Christianity or government engagement with faith-based organisations, but rather as a call for fairness and equal treatment in the implementation of public policies.
It maintained that if public funds are to be used for religious projects, such support should be distributed transparently and equitably, without creating the perception that one faith enjoys greater recognition than another.
“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. Instead, it should initiate programmes and policies that unite Nigerians and strengthen our collective national identity,” the statement added.
The association further urged the Federal Government to review the allocations in line with the constitutional principles of fairness, equity and equal treatment, insisting that budgetary decisions should promote national unity and strengthen citizens’ confidence in the impartiality of government.