The Federal Government has come under criticism after the 2026 budget revealed an allocation of ₦8.05 billion for the construction, renovation and equipping of churches and mosques across Nigeria, raising fresh concerns over public spending priorities.
The allocation was uncovered by public accountability organisation Tracka, which questioned the decision at a time the country is battling rising debt, inflation and inadequate funding for critical sectors.
Breakdown of the Allocation
According to Tracka, ₦1.91 billion was allocated to seven church-related projects, while ₦6.14 billion was earmarked for 52 mosque projects nationwide.
The projects include the construction and renovation of worship centres, installation of solar power systems, boreholes, church musical equipment, carpets, Islamiyya schools, imam houses and other religious facilities.
Tracka also noted that some of the projects were placed under government ministries and agencies whose statutory responsibilities have no direct connection with religious affairs.
Criticism Over Budget Priorities
The disclosure has generated widespread reactions, with many questioning the use of public funds for religious infrastructure while millions of Nigerians continue to face challenges in healthcare, education, road infrastructure and access to clean water.
Tracka argued that every naira spent, particularly borrowed funds, should deliver measurable public benefits and improve citizens’ welfare.
The organisation questioned whether funding religious projects should take precedence over addressing pressing developmental needs across the country.
Experts Raise Accountability Concerns
Public policy analysts have also criticised the allocations, arguing that borrowing to finance projects with little direct economic impact is difficult to justify.
They further warned that assigning religious projects to ministries and agencies outside their core mandates could weaken transparency, reduce accountability and create room for political patronage.
The revelations have renewed calls for stricter oversight of budget implementation and greater transparency in the allocation of public resources.
