The Federal Government has come under scrutiny following reports that more than N30.15 billion was set aside in the proposed 2026 budget for the construction, renovation, and furnishing of traditional rulers’ palaces, as well as projects linked to churches and mosques across the country.
A review of the budget by Tracka, the civic technology platform of BudgIT Foundation, showed that N22.15 billion was allocated for the renovation and furnishing of 106 traditional rulers’ palaces, while N8 billion was earmarked for religious-related projects involving churches and mosques.
The allocations have sparked debate over government spending priorities, especially amid economic difficulties, a reported N31.45 trillion budget deficit, rising debt obligations, and concerns over funding challenges in sectors such as healthcare, education, and social welfare.
Tracka revealed that seven church projects received N1.91 billion, while 52 mosque-related projects were allocated N6.14 billion. The projects include construction and rehabilitation of worship centres, solar installations, boreholes, church equipment, mosque facilities, imam residences, and support for Islamiyya schools.
Some of the largest allocations include N1 billion for musical and cultural equipment for churches in Abia State and another N1 billion for solar power projects at mosques in Zamfara State.
The organisation also raised concerns about transparency, stating that 11 palace projects worth N5.85 billion do not have clear locations, making public monitoring difficult.
Tracka further questioned why several government agencies without direct responsibility for traditional institutions were assigned palace construction projects. Agencies involved include research institutes, health institutions, agricultural bodies, and science organisations.
For example, the Federal Cooperative College, Ibadan, was allocated billions of naira for community hall and palace renovations, while the Nigerian Building and Road Research Institute received funding for various palace projects across different states.
The development has attracted reactions from political figures and public commentators.
Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, defended the N1 billion church allocation linked to his constituency, explaining that the project was designed as part of a youth development and moral reorientation programme rather than simply for purchasing musical equipment.
He stated that the initiative would involve faith-based organisations working to address issues such as drug abuse, crime, and social challenges among young people.
However, former Vice President and ADC presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar criticised the palace allocations, describing them as unconstitutional. He argued that matters relating to traditional institutions fall under state and local government responsibilities.
Atiku called for greater transparency, urging the government to disclose details of the 106 palace projects, including their locations, beneficiaries, costs, and legal justification.
