The Northern Christian Association (NCA) has challenged the Federal Government to explain what it described as a significant disparity in the allocation of about ₦8.05 billion for church and mosque projects in the 2026 Appropriation Bill.

The association said the imbalance raises serious concerns over equity, fairness and equal treatment of Nigerians, irrespective of their religious affiliation.

In a statement issued on Monday by its Chairman, Rev. Joseph John Hayab, the NCA said it was not opposed to government support for religious projects but insisted that such interventions must be guided by constitutional principles of justice, transparency and equality rather than actions capable of creating the impression of discrimination or preferential treatment.

According to the association, reports indicate that about ₦1.91 billion was allocated to seven church-related projects, while approximately ₦6.14 billion was earmarked for 52 mosque-related projects in the 2026 budget.

“The disparity has reinforced concerns among many Christians over the persistent pattern of unequal treatment, selective implementation of government policies and double standards in public affairs,” the statement said.

The NCA noted that Christians in Nigeria have continued to exercise restraint in the interest of national peace and unity but argued that governments at different levels have repeatedly mistaken such patience for weakness.

The association warned that partiality, lack of equity and unequal treatment of citizens continue to fuel division, distrust and segregation, undermining efforts to build national unity.

It called on the Federal Government to provide a clear explanation for the basis of the allocations, maintaining that every Nigerian deserves equal treatment under the Constitution regardless of religious belief.

“How long will Nigerians continue to read stories that expose the hypocrisy of our leaders?” Hayab asked.

“The partiality, lack of equity and unequal treatment of citizens by government and political leaders are among the major factors responsible for division, distrust, segregation and the absence of genuine unity and love among Nigerians.

“Our Constitution recognises every Nigerian as equal before the law, while the teachings of all religions discourage unfair treatment of children, women, family members and fellow human beings. Government should, therefore, not be seen to promote policies that suggest preferential treatment for one religious group over another.”

The association stressed that its position should not be interpreted as opposition to Islam, Christianity or government collaboration with faith-based organisations, but rather as a call for fairness and equity in public policy implementation.

According to the NCA, if the government considers it necessary to fund religious projects with public resources, such support should reflect transparency, fairness and balance, without creating the perception that one faith enjoys greater recognition than another.

“NCA is challenging the Federal Government to explain these abnormalities. Government should not establish a system that creates division among citizens or gives the impression that one religious community is more important than another. Instead, it should initiate programmes and policies that unite Nigerians and strengthen our collective national identity,” the statement added.

The association further urged the government to review the allocations in line with constitutional principles of fairness, equity and equal treatment, insisting that budgetary decisions should promote national unity and reinforce public confidence in the impartiality of government.