Deputy Speaker explains ₦1 billion allocation for youth program in Bende

The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has explained that the ₦1 billion in the 2026 Appropriation Bill for church musical instruments in his area, Bende Federal Constituency in Abia State, is part of a larger youth engagement program, not just for buying instruments.

This statement comes after some media reports claimed the funds were meant only for musical equipment. Some residents also said they did not get the items and raised concerns about possible misuse of public money.

In a statement released on Wednesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Levinus Nwabughiogu, Mr Kalu said these reports do not accurately reflect what the funding is meant for.

Youth Re-orientation Programme

The statement explained that the actual amount after Value-Added Tax and other deductions is ₦780 million. This money is for a “Youth Re-orientation and Social Support Programme” to be carried out by faith-based organizations using an evangelistic approach.

Mr Kalu’s office pointed out that Bende Federal Constituency has 13 federal political and electoral wards and over 200 churches. The first phase of this program will focus on 130 churches, with each expected to get about ₦5 million to ₦6 million in support.

The funds will help churches create platforms for character reform and community outreach. This includes buying evangelistic tools and sound systems to boost efforts against social issues like drug abuse, sexual crimes, and violence.

“Nation-building must go beyond roads and physical infrastructure. Government must also invest in building the character and value system of the people who use the infrastructure using various value-delivery platforms,” the statement said.

Technical Error and Procurement Status

The Deputy Speaker’s office stressed that the 2026 budget has not been funded or put into action yet; the government is still using the 2024 and 2025 budgets. Because of this, no churches have received funds or equipment so far.

The office also admitted to a “technical error” in how the budget document described the procurement process. It mentioned that a letter has been sent to the Budget Office and the Appropriations Committee to fix this mistake before the budget is implemented.

“This intervention is not about instruments alone. It is about using trusted community structures to reorient our youths, promote unity, and sustain moral instruction,” the statement added.

Mr Kalu’s office asked the public to ignore misleading reports while assuring that they are open to questions about how constituency projects are funded and spent.