By DAYO ADESULU
JAMB Presents 2025 Budget to Senate and House Joint Committee
On January 13, 2025, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) appeared before the Joint Committee of the Senate and House of Representatives on Finance to defend its budget proposal for the year 2025. This appearance was in accordance with statutory requirements, aimed at providing transparency regarding the Board’s financial plans.
Clarification on 2024 Expenditures
It is essential to clarify that the presentation focused solely on the 2025 budget proposal and did not include any information about the 2024 expenditures. Claims regarding alleged excessive spending in 2024 on meals, fumigation, security, and cleaning services were addressed as unfounded. Notably, there was no mention of a 2024 expenditure of N1.1 billion for meals or N850 million for fumigation.
Meal Provision for JAMB Staff
As part of the 2025 budget proposal, JAMB plans to provide one meal per day for its 2,300 staff members, which includes cleaners and security personnel. This initiative aims to support staff during working hours and minimize exposure to public spaces. The cost of this meal provision has increased from N1,200 to N2,200 per day per staff member due to rising food prices, leading to a projected total cost of N1.27 billion for 2025. However, JAMB has budgeted N1.1 billion for this purpose.
Budget Allocation for Outsourced Services
An important aspect of the budget proposal is the allocation of N850 million for the emoluments of outsourced cleaners, security personnel, cleaning materials, and fumigation services. JAMB has engaged firms to provide a total of 386 security personnel and 194 cleaners across its over 40 offices and PTC centers nationwide. This budget reflects the recent salary review mandated by the government, ensuring fair compensation for these essential workers.
Addressing Misconceptions on Fumigation Costs
It is critical to address misconceptions regarding the allocation for fumigation services, which has been inaccurately reported. The N850 million covers operational costs, with only N2 million specifically designated for fumigation, a decrease from less than N1 million in 2024. The least paid security personnel earn N30,000, with projections for an increase to N70,000, highlighting the focus on employee welfare rather than excessive expenditures.
Insight into Local Travel and Transport Budget
Additionally, clarification was provided on the N6.4 billion proposed for “Local Travel and Transport (Training)” aimed at the over 10,500 staff and officials involved in the 2025 UTME mock examination and other engagements. As a Government Owned Enterprise (GOE), JAMB is required to categorize expenditures according to specific guidelines, which explains the lumped figure under a single heading.
JAMB’s Commitment to Prudent Financial Management
JAMB remains dedicated to managing its resources efficiently, adhering to the expectations of the nation’s leadership. The Board’s financial strategies are designed to ensure transparency and accountability in all operations, fostering trust and clarity in its budgeting process.
Fabian Benjamin, Ph.D.
Public Communications and Advocacy (PCA)
