Kalu Clarifies N780m Bende Youth, Church Support Budget

​Clarification on Bende Budget Allocation

​The Office of the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives has addressed recent media reports concerning a budgetary allocation for churches in the Bende Federal Constituency of Abia State.

ADVERTISEMENT

​Scope and Financial Breakdown

• ​Net Allocation: The proposed provision stands at N780 million after value-added tax and statutory deductions, adjusting initial reports.
• ​Beneficiary Reach: The initiative targets over 130 churches across the 13 federal electoral wards in Bende, averaging approximately 10 churches per ward.
• ​Individual Support: Each selected church is slated to receive between N5 million and N6 million to equip youth engagement platforms.

​Strategic Objectives and Non-Kinetic Approaches

​The intervention forms part of a broader Youth Re-orientation and Social Support Programme channeled through faith-based organizations.

• ​Youth Engagement: Funds are designated for acquiring evangelical and public address equipment to facilitate campaigns against vices such as narcotic abuse, sexual offenses, and violent crime.
• ​Value Orientation: The strategy emphasizes character reform, discipline, and moral instruction among young constituents.
• ​Complementary Efforts: Officials noted that the approach mirrors support previously extended to traditional institutions through community engagement centers, utilizing established social structures for non-kinetic peace-building.

​Implementation Status and Administrative Correction

• ​Budgetary Timeline: The 2026 budget accommodating the provision remains unimplemented, pending financial releases and procurement procedures.
• ​Correction of Description: A technical error identified in the initial procurement description is being addressed via a letter of corrigendum submitted through the appropriation committee.

​The office urged members of the public and media organizations to dismiss sensationalized narratives, framing the initiative as a deliberate investment in societal values and youth development alongside physical infrastructure.