The office of Deputy Speaker Benjamin Okezie Kalu has dismissed reports alleging that the 2026 budget includes a N1 billion allocation for purchasing church musical instruments in Bende Federal Constituency. Chief Press Secretary Levinus Nwabughiogu labeled the claims as inaccurate.
The initiative, officially termed the Youth Re-orientation and Social Support Programme, was mischaracterized in public reports. The actual funding is N780 million after statutory tax deductions. Rather than being restricted to music equipment, these funds are intended to support youth-focused community outreach through faith-based organizations across 13 electoral wards.
By partnering with approximately 130 churches, the program aims to curb drug abuse, sexual violence, and other crimes. Each participating church is expected to receive between N5 million and N6 million. Kalu’s office emphasized that national development requires investing in moral character alongside physical infrastructure.
The statement noted that a technical error in the budget documentation was already being addressed through the National Assembly. Furthermore, no money has been disbursed, as the 2026 budget has not yet taken effect. Officials requested that the public ignore sensationalized accounts while maintaining that the project remains committed to transparency and the promotion of civic values.
