The Bauchi State Economic Council has approved the payment of monthly stipends to Imams and Pastors across the state.

Governor Bala Mohammed presided over the council meeting which was held on Friday, with top officials from the finance and revenue sectors in attendance.

Briefing journalists, the Head of Civil Service, Barri. Mohammed Sani Umar, said the approval covers Imams of Juma’at mosques and clerics of various Christian denominations, adding that the payments will be made without discrimination.

He said the government is working out the financial implications to ensure smooth implementation of the policy.

Umar also disclosed that the council approved the commencement of salary payments to newly appointed Emirs and District Heads, noting that adequate cash flow has been provided.

Meanwhile, the Governor’s Chief Economic Adviser, Alhaji Yahuza Adamu Haruna, said the council reviewed the state’s salary administration and uncovered over 3,000 ghost workers.

He said the payroll audit, carried out with Onyx Investment Advisory Limited, saved the state more than ₦4.16 billion.

Haruna added that the state government took over salary payments in August 2024, after which complaints over salary issues ceased. (The Nation)

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