The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Ben Kalu, has explained that the sum of N1 billion earmarked in the 2026 budget for musical instruments in Bende federal constituency of Abia State is part of a “Youth Re-orientation and Social Support Programme delivered with evangelistic approach through faith-based organisations.”
In a statement issued by his office, Kalu said the report suggesting the money was inserted “solely for the procurement of musical instruments for churches in Bende” was a misrepresentation.
“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,” the statement said.
“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.”
Kalu noted that the fund 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,” he said.
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.
According to him, 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.”
Kalu further argued that the approach was not entirely new, saying faith-based organisations in other parts of the country have invested in youth development, but “it is a strategy that has not gained currency in the South East region.”