N8.05bn for Churches and Mosques in 2026 Budget Sparks Public Outcry

A breakdown of Nigeria’s 2026 budget reveals a total of ₦8.05 billion set aside for the construction, renovation and equipping of places of worship. Of this, ₦1.91 billion funds seven church projects, while ₦6.14 billion supports 52 mosque initiatives. These expenditures are scattered across ministries that normally do not oversee religious affairs. Critics have slammed the allocations amid a historic fiscal deficit of ₦31.45 trillion. They argue the money could instead improve healthcare centres, schools, roads and clean water supplies in underserved communities. Public accountability groups say borrowing to fund religious projects yields no economic return. They also warn that routing constituency spending through unrelated agencies undermines procurement rules and opens the door to political patronage. Analysts maintain that, given Nigeria’s limited fiscal space, religious construction should be funded by private organisations and adherents, rather than from scarce public resources.

Use The App To Win ₦1m

Stories are shared by community members. This article does not represent the official view of NaijaWorld — the author is solely responsible for its content.