Nigeria JAMB Defends N1.1 Billion for Staff Meals in 2025 Budget Proposal

JAMB justifies its N1.1 billion budget for staff feeding in 2025, explaining the need to maintain staff efficiency and focus. The allocation will provide one meal per day for 2,300 employees, with the cost per meal rising due to food price increases. The budget is funded through JAMB's IGR.

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has defended its allocation of N1.1 billion for staff feeding in its 2025 budget, explaining it as a necessary measure to ensure the well-being and productivity of its workforce. During a Senate and House of Representatives committee meeting on January 13, JAMB representatives clarified that the N1.1 billion would cover the cost of one meal per day for approximately 2,300 staff members, including cleaners and security personnel, nationwide.

JAMB emphasized that providing meals would help avoid distractions or risks associated with staff sourcing food during work hours. The meal plan, initially implemented at the headquarters, has been expanded to include outstation employees following requests. The cost of providing meals has risen from N1,200 to N2,200 per staff member due to increasing food prices.

The total projected cost for the year is N1.27 billion, but JAMB’s budget proposal reflects a more modest N1.1 billion. The Board also clarified that funds for this program come from its Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), not government allocations, and that the program is not excessive but a necessary response to operational realities.