In a new development that has stirred mixed reactions, the National Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (NASU) and the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN) have expressed their approval of a recent decision by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) to allocate N1.1 billion annually for the feeding of over 2,300 of its staff members. This allocation, which is part of the board’s budget for 2025, is aimed at providing meals for the staff working across various locations nationwide.
The feeding budget, which has raised eyebrows among taxpayers and policy analysts, is intended to cater to the well-being and productivity of JAMB personnel. According to official reports, the decision was made in light of the growing challenges faced by civil servants in the country, including rising inflation and the increasing cost of living. JAMB officials have defended the allocation, stating that the measure is necessary to ensure that staff members remain focused and efficient while executing the board’s critical responsibilities.
NASU and ASCSN, two of the prominent unions representing civil servants in Nigeria, have backed the decision, stating that such provisions are vital for maintaining morale and boosting productivity. “It is crucial that the welfare of civil servants is prioritized, as they are the backbone of government operations. Providing meals will help improve their efficiency and overall performance,” said a representative from ASCSN.
However, the decision has sparked concerns among the public, with critics questioning the justification for such a large sum being allocated to feeding staff members when other sectors in the country are facing financial constraints. Some have raised concerns about the long-term implications of such a significant expenditure, especially in a country grappling with high levels of poverty and unemployment. “While the welfare of civil servants is important, spending over a billion naira annually on feeding seems excessive, especially when there are pressing needs in healthcare, education, and infrastructure,” said a concerned taxpayer.
JAMB has stated that the funds will cover a range of feeding services for staff working in various administrative capacities, including those handling the logistics for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). The board also noted that the allocation will contribute to creating a more conducive working environment, ultimately benefiting the wider education sector.
Despite the concerns, NASU and ASCSN remain resolute in their support for the feeding plan. “In a time when civil servants are often overworked and underpaid, any effort to improve their welfare should be seen as a positive step,” said NASU officials. They added that improving the quality of life for civil servants would translate into better service delivery to the Nigerian public.
The approval of this feeding allocation is just one of many welfare measures being considered by various government agencies to improve the living conditions of civil servants. However, it also highlights the ongoing debate surrounding government spending, with many calling for a more balanced approach to budgeting that takes into account the country’s broader socio-economic challenges.
As discussions continue, it remains to be seen how this move will be received by the wider public and whether similar provisions will be adopted across other government agencies.
