The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has justified its proposed allocation of “N1.1 billion” for staff feeding in its 2025 budget, sparking heated discussions within the National Assembly and among the public.
This proposal, meant to provide daily meals for JAMB’s 2,300 staff members, has drawn criticism from lawmakers, including Senator Adams Oshiomhole, who questioned the prudence of the expenditure, particularly given the financial burden on Nigerian students.
During a review of the 2025 budget, lawmakers questioned why a self-sustaining agency like JAMB still received government funding. Abiodun Faleke, Chairman of the House Committee on Finance, challenged JAMB’s financial approach, suggesting the agency retain its N4 billion remittance rather than seeking government support.
Oshiomhole criticized the proposed N1.1 billion for meals and N850 million for security, cleaning, and fumigation, remarking, “Are you being freely fed by the government? Many of these funds come from students who struggle to pay.”
In a press statement, Dr. Fabian Benjamin, JAMB’s spokesperson, defended the budget, citing the sensitive nature of the staff’s responsibilities. He explained the provision of daily meals was introduced to minimize staff exposure to public interactions during working hours, particularly to protect sensitive ICT infrastructure.
Benjamin further clarified that:
– The daily meal cost per staff member is N2,200, up from N1,200, reflecting inflation and rising food prices.
– The budget for meals, though calculated at N1.27 billion, was capped at N1.1 billion.
– The initiative, initially limited to headquarters staff, will expand nationwide.
JAMB also addressed concerns about the N850 million allocated for cleaning, security, and fumigation, stating it covers the salaries of 386 outsourced security personnel and 194 cleaners across 40 offices.
– Only N2 million of this sum is dedicated to fumigation.
– The increase reflects a government-mandated salary review for outsourced staff, with minimum wages now projected to rise significantly.
Regarding the N6.4 billion budgeted for local travel and training, JAMB explained the funds will support over 0,500 officials during the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and mock exams. The Board clarified that this allocation aligns with the Budget Information Management Monitoring System (BIMMS) guidelines for Government-Owned Enterprises (GOEs).
JAMB emphasized its commitment to prudent resource management and adherence to government expectations, assuring that all operational costs are covered by its internally generated revenue. The agency reiterated that the government only funds salaries for its pensionable staff.
The debate over JAMB’s 2025 budget highlights broader concerns about public sector accountability and the prioritization of funds. As discussions continue, stakeholders and the public will closely monitor how the agency navigates these challenges.
