The Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Professor Ishaq Oloyede, has responded to concerns over alleged misrepresentation of figures in the Board’s 2025 budget proposal.
Speaking at an event in Abuja on Tuesday, Oloyede clarified that reports claiming JAMB spent large sums on items such as fumigation and meals in 2024 were inaccurate.
“I want to say emphatically, without any iota of doubt, that I never presented any budget performance for 2024 before the National Assembly yesterday,” Oloyede said, addressing confusion surrounding his budget presentation.
He said that the total expenditure for fumigation across all states in 2024 was under N1 million, with the proposed 2025 budget for fumigation set at less than N2 million.
Oloyede also addressed claims of excessive spending on training, stating that the N6.5 billion cited was a proposal for 2025 and covered multiple budget lines, including examiner and invigilator allowances. “Some of our examiners stay for 10 days. I do not determine their DTA; it’s the government that does,” he explained.
Oloyede further addressed reports about meal expenses, explaining that JAMB provides lunch to staff at its headquarters due to security and infrastructure concerns. He noted that the Board has been proactive in managing its resources, despite misconceptions.
He defended the proposed increases for cleaners and security personnel, citing the recent hike in the national minimum wage. He expressed hope that the National Assembly committee would allow for further clarification to resolve any remaining misunderstandings.
