JAMB Justified Its Proposed N1.1 Billion Budget for Feeding Staff In 2025
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has defended its proposed 2025 budget, which allocates N1.1 billion for feeding its 2,300 staff members throughout the year.
This significant provision has raised eyebrows, prompting concerns from the National Assembly.
According to JAMB’s National Spokesman, Dr. Fabian Benjamin, the meal provision is a recognition of the “sensitive and critical” responsibilities of its staff and aims to minimize their exposure to the public during working hours. The initiative was initially implemented at the headquarters, with plans to extend it to all offices nationwide.
Breakdown of the Proposed JAMB Budget
- N1.1 billion for “daily sustenance” meals, based on a daily cost of N2,200 per staff member, including 13.5% taxes
- N850 million for the emolument of outsourced cleaners, security personnel, cleaning materials, fumigation services, and tax
- N6.4 billion proposed for ‘Local Travel and Transport (Training)’ for over 10,500 staff and other officials
JAMB has clarified that the budget proposal is “not an expenditure already incurred” but rather a plan for the upcoming year.
The examination body has also emphasized its commitment to managing its resources “prudently and efficiently”, aligning with the requirements and expectations of the nation’s leadership.
