Amid outrage over allocation of N8.09 billion for churches and mosques in the 2026 budget, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has said N780 million in the said budget was allocated to promote church evangelism among youths in his constituency.

Mr Kalu, who represents Bende Federal Constituency, made this defence in a statement by his spokesperson, Levinus Nwabughiogu, on Wednesday.

According to Mr Kalu, the proposed allocation for his constituency is N780 million after VAT and other tax deductions.

He noted that it was earmarked as a Youth Re-orientation and Social Support Programmes delivered evangelistically through faith-based organisations in Bende federal constituency of Abia State.

He added, “The funds are intended to support the purchase of evangelical instruments and public address systems to promote campaigns against vices like the spread of narcotics, sexual offences, violent crimes while instilling discipline, values, peace, and character development among young people in the communities.”

The lawmaker explained that “Bende has 13 federal political/electoral wards and over 200 churches. The first phase of this support targets 130 of these churches averaging about 10 churches per ward, which amounts to approximately 5 to 6 million naira per church. It is designed to equip churches to expand existing youth engagement platforms focused on character reform, and to deliver more impactful community outreaches.”

The lawmaker argued that nation-building must go beyond roads and physical infrastructure. 

He noted that government must also invest in building the character and value system of the people who use the infrastructure using various value delivery platforms.

Mr Kalu said, “Government is also employing non-kinetic approaches to promote peace, unity and progress of Nigeria.  The 2026 budget where this (N780 million) is domiciled is yet to be implemented. The selected churches will receive notification once the procurement processes have been concluded.”

He added, “At the moment, the country is still operating on the 2024 and 2025 budgets. The 2026 budget is yet to be funded. It is yet to receive releases, which must take place before the commencement of procurement.”

Mr Kalu’s statement trailed public criticisms on government’s funding of religious activities.