The Federal Government has come under intense public scrutiny after documents revealed that N8.05 billion was set aside for the construction, renovation and equipping of churches and mosques in the 2026 budget.
The budget details, uncovered by public accountability group Tracka. Moreover, the revelation comes as many communities continue to struggle with poor roads, inadequate healthcare, limited access to clean water and overcrowded schools.
The development has also renewed discussions about transparency in public spending.
According to Tracka, a total of N1.91 billion was budgeted for seven church-related projects. Meanwhile, N6.14 billion was allocated for 52 mosque-related projects nationwide. The budget covers several religious projects across different states.
These include the construction and renovation of worship centres. In addition, funds were allocated for solar power systems and boreholes. The projects also include musical equipment for churches. Carpets for mosques and Islamiyya schools were equally listed.
Furthermore, imam houses and other religious facilities were captured in the budget. However, concerns have grown over the agencies assigned to execute some of the projects.
According to the findings, several projects were placed under ministries and government agencies whose responsibilities are not directly linked to religious affairs.
Reacting to the discovery, Tracka questioned the decision to spend public funds on religious facilities while many Nigerians still lack essential services.
The organisation stated:
“The disclosure has sparked widespread criticism, coming at a time Nigeria is battling a widening fiscal deficit, rising public debt, inflation, and funding shortages in critical sectors such as healthcare, education, roads, and water supply.”
Tracka also argued that government spending should focus on projects with direct public benefits.
According to the organisation:
“Every naira spent, especially borrowed funds, should…”
Although the statement released publicly ended before the full sentence was provided, the organisation maintained that prudent spending should remain a national priority.
They argued that borrowing money to finance projects with limited economic returns may not be in the country’s best interest. Furthermore, they warned that assigning religious projects to unrelated agencies could reduce transparency.
The debate has continued across social media and among civic organisations. Many Nigerians believe the allocation deserves closer public scrutiny.
Others insist that urgent sectors such as healthcare, education, electricity and road infrastructure require greater attention.
As discussions continue, many stakeholders are calling for greater openness in budget planning and stronger accountability in public spending.
