The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has explained that the N1 billion allocated to churches in Bende Federal Constituency in the 2026 budget is intended for a youth reorientation initiative, not for musical instruments as reported. The actual allocation, after VAT and statutory deductions, is N780 million, designated for a Youth Re-orientation and Social Support Programme to be delivered through faith-based organisations in the constituency. Kalu, represented by his Chief Press Secretary Levinus Nwabughiogu in a Wednesday statement, said the programme aims to strengthen youth engagement and combat social vices such as drug abuse, sexual offences and violent crimes.
The intervention will target about 130 churches across the constituency's 13 electoral wards, averaging 10 per ward, with each expected to receive between N5 million and N6 million. Funds will support evangelical instruments and public address systems to facilitate outreach campaigns focused on character development and peace-building. Kalu emphasized that nation-building must include value reorientation, not just physical infrastructure, and that faith-based organisations are key partners in promoting moral values. He noted similar youth development models exist elsewhere in Nigeria, though they are less common in the South-East.
Kalu clarified that the 2026 budget has not been implemented or funded, and no procurement has begun. A technical error in the procurement description has been identified, and a corrigendum is being processed through the Budget Office and National Assembly for correction.
Benjamin Kalu defends a budget line that appears to benefit churches while framing it as a youth intervention, but the link between instrument purchases and measurable social outcomes remains unproven. Since the funds are not yet disbursed and the implementation plan is still being corrected, residents of Bende must assess whether this model delivers tangible value or blurs public spending boundaries.
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