By Derick Peretengboro

Nigeria’s proposed 2026 national budget has sparked widespread debate following the discovery of billions of naira earmarked for palace-related and religious projects, with many Nigerians questioning the government’s spending priorities.

Public accountability advocates and civil society organisations have expressed concern over budget provisions that reportedly allocate significant sums for the renovation, construction and furnishing of royal palaces, as well as churches and mosques, despite the country’s economic challenges and growing fiscal deficit.

According to findings by transparency campaigners, more than ₦22 billion was proposed for projects linked to traditional rulers’ palaces, while over ₦8 billion was set aside for religious infrastructure across different ministries and government agencies. Critics argue that many of the agencies involved do not have constitutional responsibilities relating to religious or royal institutions.

The revelations have generated heated reactions from citizens, policy analysts and opposition figures, who believe public funds should be directed toward pressing sectors such as healthcare, education, infrastructure and security instead of projects viewed as less urgent.

The Northern Christian Association also raised concerns over what it described as an imbalance in the distribution of funds for religious projects. The group called on the Federal Government to ensure fairness, transparency and compliance with constitutional principles in the implementation of the budget.

The proposed 2026 budget, valued at approximately ₦68.32 trillion, is expected to be financed with projected revenues of about ₦34 trillion, leaving a substantial budget deficit. Analysts warn that such spending decisions could intensify public scrutiny as lawmakers begin deliberations on the appropriation bill.

As discussions continue, transparency advocates have urged Nigerians to closely monitor budget implementation and demand accountability from government institutions to ensure public resources are used effectively.