Kalu: Why N1bn Was Put in 2026 Budget to Procure Musical Instruments for Churches

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Ben Kalu, has explained that the sum of N1 billion was earmarked to purchase musical instruments for churches in Bende federal constituency of Abia state because the programme was a Youth Re-orientation and Social Support Programme delivered with evangelistic approach through faith-based organisations in his constituency. In a statement by his office, he noted that Bende has 13 federal political/electoral wards and over 200 churches. He further argued that this development was not entirely new or strange, saying faith-based organisations in other parts of the country invested in youth development, but it is a strategy that has not gained currency in the South East region. “The attention of the Office of the Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives and member representing Bende Federal Constituency of Abia State, Hon. Benjamin Kalu has been drawn to media reports suggesting that N1 billion was inserted in the 2026 budget solely for the procurement of musical instruments for churches in Bende. “We wish to clarify that this is a misrepresentation of the intent and scope of the provision. The proposed allocation is actually N780 million after VAT and other tax deductions. “It is earmarked as a Youth Re-orientation and Social Support Programme delivered with evangelistic approach through faith-based organizations in Bende federal constituency of Abia State. Bende has 13 federal political/electoral wards and over 200 churches. “The first phase of this support targets 130 of these churches averaging about 10 churches per ward, which amounts to approximately 5 to 6 million Naira per church,” Kalu noted. He added that the intervention was designed to equip churches to expand existing youth engagement platforms focused on character reform, and to deliver more impactful community outreaches. He explained that the funds were intended to support the purchase of evangelical instruments and public address systems to promote campaigns against vices like the spread of narcotics, sexual offences, violent crimes while instilling discipline, values, peace, and character development among young people in the communities.