Nigeria's 2026 budget faces scrutiny over N8.05 billion allocation to faith-based organizations

This allocation has raised concerns regarding transparency, accountability, fiscal discipline, and adherence to Section 10 of the Nigerian Constitution, which states that the government shall not adopt any religion as State Religion. Critics argue that such spending is indefensible given the country's severe economic hardship and the need to prioritize essential developmental needs like healthcare, social welfare, power, and internal security. The Office of the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, defended the appropriation, stating it is for youth social intervention programs implemented through faith-based organizations, with an actual allocation of N780 million after deductions, aimed at a youth reorientation campaign against crime and drug abuse.

However, critics maintain that public programs should be transparently budgeted through appropriate government agencies rather than disguised under faith-based allocations. The article suggests that the N8.05 billion could instead fund critical infrastructure such as primary healthcare centers, solar-powered boreholes, and classroom blocks, or address issues like youth unemployment and poverty, which affect a significant porti