Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, has clarified reports surrounding the budgetary provision for churches in Bende Federal Constituency, stating that the allocation is not solely for the purchase of musical instruments but for a youth reorientation and social support programme.
In a statement issued by his office, Kalu explained that the approved allocation is ₦780 million, after deductions for VAT and other taxes, and is designed to be implemented through faith-based organisations using an evangelistic approach.
According to him, Bende Federal Constituency has 13 electoral wards and over 200 churches, with the first phase of the programme targeting 130 churches—an average of 10 churches in each ward.
He said the intervention is aimed at strengthening existing church-based youth engagement initiatives by providing evangelical instruments, public address systems and other resources needed for community outreach programmes.
The Deputy Speaker noted that the initiative seeks to promote character development, discipline, peace and moral values among young people, while discouraging social vices such as drug abuse, sexual offences and violent crimes.
Kalu further stated that faith-based organisations have continued to play vital roles in youth development across other parts of the country, adding that the programme is intended to replicate similar community-driven interventions in the South-East.
He described reports suggesting that the funds were meant solely for the purchase of musical instruments as a misrepresentation of the purpose and scope of the project.
