Many Nigerians are angry, and rightly so, after the FG set aside N8.05 billion in the 2026 budget to build and renovate mosques and churches.
At a time when hospitals have no drugs, schools have no teachers, and roads swallow vehicles, government wants to fund worship centers. That is tone-deaf.
First, the principle. Section 10 of the Constitution says Nigeria shall have no state religion. When public money goes directly to places of worship, we blur that line. Tomorrow it will be temples, shrines, and “traditional centers.” Where does it stop?
Second, the priority. N8.05bn can equip 200 PHCs, pay ASUU arrears, or fix critical road sections. Instead we are building altars while citizens beg for light and security. Hunger does not ask if you are Christian or Muslim.
Third, the precedent. Religious bodies already receive donations, tithes, and zakat. They run schools and hospitals better than many governments. Let them lead faith projects. Government’s job is public goods: water, power, jobs, safety.
Faith matters. But development matters more. If we fund God’s house and abandon God’s people, we have missed the point.
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bcradle@ymail.com