The Northern Christian Association (NCA) has formally requested that the Federal Government provide a justification for a significant funding gap in the 2026 Appropriation Bill. The organization highlighted that the budget allocates approximately N8.05 billion for religious projects, yet the distribution between Islamic and Christian sites appears heavily skewed.
Led by chairman Rev. Joseph John Hayab, the group noted that roughly N6.14 billion has been designated for 52 projects related to mosques, while only N1.91 billion is set aside for seven church-related projects. The NCA argued that this imbalance undermines principles of fairness and constitutional equality.
While the NCA clarified that it does not oppose government involvement in religious initiatives, it insisted that any state-funded projects must be transparent and equitable. The association warned that such disparities feed perceptions of religious discrimination and foster national division. According to the NCA, public funds should not be used in a way that suggests the government favors one faith over another, as this threatens the unity and trust necessary for a cohesive society.
The group concluded by urging the government to review these budget figures to ensure they align with the constitutional requirement for equal treatment of all citizens. They emphasized that their stance is a plea for justice rather than an attack on any specific religion, calling on leaders to prioritize policies that strengthen rather than fracture the national identity.
