The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has defended its proposed N1.1 billion budget for staff feeding in 2025, citing the initiative’s role in maintaining workforce efficiency and addressing operational challenges.
Appearing before the Joint Senate and House Finance Committee on January 13, 2025, JAMB explained that the allocation covers one meal per day for its 2,300 staff members, including cleaners and security personnel, across the country.
The Board stated, “This initiative was introduced to ensure our staff, who perform sensitive responsibilities, remain focused without the distractions or risks associated with sourcing meals during work hours.”
Initially implemented at its headquarters at a cost of N1,200 per staff meal, JAMB noted that rising food prices and vendor costs have pushed the estimated meal cost to N2,200 in 2025, including taxes.
JAMB explained, “Based on this adjustment, the total cost for providing meals for 2,300 staff members for the entire year is projected to be N1.27 billion. However, we have budgeted N1.1 billion, demonstrating our commitment to prudence.”
The Board added that the program not only supports staff welfare. It went further to explain, “This measure also minimizes the risk of damage to our ICT infrastructure, which could occur if staff were to eat in offices.” The initiative was extended to outstation staff following repeated requests.
“All expenses in this proposal are drawn from our Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), not from government allocations, which only cover salaries for pensionable staff,” JAMB emphasized.
JAMB assured stakeholders that this provision is a practical response to rising costs and staff welfare needs, reflecting financial responsibility rather than extravagance. It reiterated its commitment to transparency and efficient resource management.
Source: tribuneonlineng.com