The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has justified its proposal of N1.1 billion for staff feeding in its 2025 budget, citing the need to maintain efficiency among its workforce while addressing operational challenges.

During its appearance before the Joint Committee of the Senate and House of Representatives on Finance on Monday, January 13, 2025, the Board explained that the allocation is for providing one meal per day to its 2,300 staff members, including cleaners and security personnel, nationwide.

?This initiative was introduced to ensure our staff, who perform sensitive responsibilities, remain focused without the distractions or risks associated with sourcing meals during work hours,? JAMB stated.

The Board highlighted that the daily meal plan had initially been implemented at its headquarters, with a cost of N1,200 per staff member. However, due to rising food prices and vendor demands, the cost per meal is expected to increase to N2,200 in 2025, including taxes.

?Based on this adjustment, the total cost for providing meals for 2,300 staff members for the entire year is projected to be N1.27 billion. However, we have budgeted N1.1 billion, demonstrating our commitment to prudence,? JAMB explained.

According to the Board, the provision of meals extends beyond staff welfare. ?This measure also minimizes the risk of damage to our ICT infrastructure, which could occur if staff were to eat in offices,? JAMB said, adding that the initiative was expanded to outstation employees following consistent requests.

The Board reiterated that the proposed budget reflects its ongoing efforts to align with operational realities while ensuring financial responsibility.

?All expenses in this proposal are drawn from our Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), not from government allocations, which only cover salaries for pensionable staff,? JAMB clarified.

JAMB assured stakeholders of its dedication to efficient resource management and transparency, emphasizing that the budgetary provision is not extravagant but a necessary response to the rising cost of services and the welfare needs of its staff. (Nigerian Tribune)