The Northern Christian Association (NCA) has called on the Federal Government to explain what it described as an imbalance in the allocation of funds for church and mosque projects in the 2026 Appropriation Bill, saying the disparity raises concerns about fairness and equal treatment.
In a statement issued on Monday, the association’s Chairman, Rev. Joseph Hayab, said reports indicated that about N8.05 billion was budgeted for religious projects, with approximately N1.91 billion allocated to seven church-related projects and N6.14 billion set aside for 52 mosque-related projects.
The NCA said it was not opposed to government funding for religious projects but maintained that such spending should be guided by the constitutional principles of fairness, transparency and justice.
According to the association, the distribution has reinforced concerns among many Christians over what it described as a recurring pattern of unequal treatment and selective implementation of government policies.
Hayab argued that perceived bias and a lack of equity by political leaders have contributed to division, distrust and weakened national unity, adding that Christians have continued to show restraint in the interest of peace but warned that such patience should not be taken for granted.
He also said the Constitution guarantees equality for all Nigerians and urged the government to avoid policies that could create the impression of preferential treatment for any religious group.
The association stressed that its position should not be seen as opposition to either Islam or Christianity, nor to government collaboration with faith-based organisations, but rather as a call for the equitable distribution of public resources.
The NCA urged the Federal Government to explain the basis for the allocations and review them in line with the principles of fairness, equity and equal treatment, insisting that budget decisions should promote national unity and strengthen public confidence in the impartiality of government.
