Bauchi State Government Approves Monthly Financial Support for Religious Leaders
The Bauchi State Economic Council has officially sanctioned the disbursement of monthly stipends to religious leaders across the state, encompassing both Islamic and Christian denominations. This significant decision was reached during a council meeting presided over by Governor Bala Mohammed on Friday, January 30, which saw the participation of key officials from the finance and revenue sectors.
Inclusive Support for Imams and Pastors
Following the meeting, Barri. Mohammed Sani Umar, the Head of Civil Service, addressed journalists to outline the details of the approval. He emphasized that the stipends will be allocated to Imams of Juma’at mosques and Pastors from various Christian denominations, with a firm commitment to implementing the payments without any form of discrimination.
"The council has approved the payment of monthly stipends to Imams of Juma’at mosques and Pastors of various Christian denominations across the state," Umar stated. "The payments will be implemented without discrimination."
He further noted that the government is currently assessing the financial implications of this policy to ensure its smooth and sustainable execution, highlighting efforts to integrate it into the state's budgetary framework.
Additional Approvals and Financial Reforms
In related developments, Umar disclosed that the council has also approved the commencement of salary payments to newly appointed Emirs and District Heads. He assured that adequate cash flow arrangements have been established to support this decision, facilitating timely disbursements.
Meanwhile, Alhaji Yahuza Adamu Haruna, the Governor’s Chief Economic Adviser, provided insights into the council's review of the state's salary administration process. This audit, conducted in collaboration with Onyx Investment Advisory Limited, led to the discovery of more than 3,000 ghost workers on the payroll.
"A payroll audit conducted in collaboration with Onyx Investment Advisory Limited led to savings of over ₦4.16 billion for the state," Haruna explained. He added that since the state government assumed full responsibility for salary payments in August 2024, complaints regarding salary issues have ceased, indicating improved efficiency in financial management.
Broader Implications for Governance
This move by the Bauchi State Economic Council reflects a multifaceted approach to governance, combining social support for religious leaders with rigorous financial oversight. The approval of stipends aims to foster interfaith harmony and recognize the contributions of clerics to community stability.
Simultaneously, the uncovering of ghost workers and the resultant savings underscore the administration's commitment to transparency and fiscal responsibility. These measures are expected to enhance public trust and optimize resource allocation for developmental projects across the state.
