The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) appeared before the Joint Committee of the Senate and House of Representatives on Finance on Monday, January 13, 2025, to defend its proposed 2025 budget. This appearance was in compliance with statutory requirements, focusing exclusively on the 2025 budget proposal rather than any 2024 expenditures, as previously misreported in some quarters.
Key Clarifications on Budget Misconceptions
During the session, JAMB debunked claims about exorbitant spending in 2024, particularly allegations of N1.1 billion for feeding and N850 million for fumigation. No such expenditures were presented, as the session centered solely on the 2025 budget proposal.
One of the notable provisions in the proposed 2025 budget is N1.1 billion allocated for providing meals to 2,300 staff members, including cleaners and security personnel, nationwide. The initiative was initially implemented at the headquarters to minimize disruptions and safeguard sensitive ICT infrastructure, with plans to extend it to outstation offices. Rising food costs have necessitated an adjustment in the per-staff daily meal allowance from N1,200 to N2,200, including taxes.
Another key item in the budget is N850 million earmarked for the remuneration of outsourced cleaners and security personnel, procurement of cleaning materials, fumigation services, and associated taxes. Of this amount, only N2 million is allocated for fumigation in 2025. This budget reflects the recent government-mandated salary review, which increases the minimum pay for security personnel from N30,000 to N70,000, with a similar doubling of cleaners’ pay.
Addressing Misinformation on Travel and Training Costs
JAMB also clarified the N6.4 billion proposed under “Local Travel and Transport (Training)” for the training and deployment of over 10,500 personnel for the 2025 UTME, mock examinations, and other assignments. This categorization is mandated under the Budget Information Management Monitoring System (BIMMS) for Government Owned Enterprises (GOEs), with detailed allocations provided in supplementary documentation.
Funding and Resource Management
The Board reiterated that all capital, overhead, and operational expenses are funded through JAMB’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR). The federal government solely covers salaries for pensionable staff, underscoring JAMB’s prudent resource management to meet its operational needs.
Commitment to Transparency and Prudence
JAMB’s Director of Public Affairs, Dr. Fabian Benjamin, emphasized the Board’s commitment to transparency and fiscal responsibility. He stressed the importance of presenting accurate information to prevent public misinformation and highlighted JAMB’s dedication to aligning with national expectations for effective and efficient resource management.
