Bauchi State Approves Monthly Stipends for Religious Leaders
In a significant move to support religious institutions, the Bauchi State Economic Council has approved the payment of monthly stipends to Imams and Pastors across various denominations in the state. This decision was announced by the State's Head of Civil Service, Barr. Mohammed Sani Umar, following a council meeting presided over by Governor Bala Mohammed on Friday, January 30, 2026.
Comprehensive Support for Religious Leaders
Barr. Mohammed Sani Umar explained that Governor Mohammed approved the monthly stipends for Imams of various Juma'at Mosques and clerics of different Christian denominations. The Head of Service emphasized that this payment will be carried out irrespective of sects and denominations, ensuring inclusive support for religious leaders throughout Bauchi State.
The final step involves working out the economic and financial implications for effective policy implementation, according to Umar. He noted that key stakeholders from financial and revenue sectors deliberated extensively before approving this initiative.
Additional Financial Measures
During the same meeting, the council discussed the commencement of salary payments for newly appointed Emirs and District Heads across the state. Umar confirmed that Governor Mohammed's administration has made adequate cash flow provisions to ensure the financial sustainability of these traditional rulers.
Ghost Worker Discovery Saves Billions
In a related development, the Governor's Chief Economic Adviser, Alhaji Yahuza Adamu Haruna, revealed that over 3,000 ghost workers were discovered after reviewing the state's salary administration process. This comprehensive review saved the state more than N4.16 billion in salary payments.
Haruna explained that the government collaborated with Onyx Investment Advisory Limited, a consulting firm, to identify and eliminate ghost workers from the payroll. "By August 2024, the state government took over salary payments from the consulting firm. Previously, the process was riddled with complaints, but since the exercise was concluded, there have been no further complaints," he stated.
Historical Context and National Perspective
This initiative follows similar efforts in other Nigerian states. In 2018, the Lagos State government vowed to pay salaries to religious leaders as part of efforts to combat corruption. The Lagos government tasked clerics with encouraging their followers to shun corrupt practices and promote positive societal values.
Meanwhile, religious compensation remains a topic of discussion nationally. Apostle Harrison Ayintete, Lead Pastor and founder of The Goodness Nation Ministries, recently questioned the rationale behind some pastors' salaries, noting that some earn as little as N15,000 monthly. He suggested that pastors receiving such amounts should be allowed additional opportunities to support themselves.
The Bauchi State government's comprehensive approach addresses both religious support and fiscal responsibility, demonstrating a balanced strategy for governance and community development.
