The administration of Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State has approved the payment of monthly stipends to imams and pastors across the state.
The Governor made the approval while presiding over the council meeting which was held on Friday, with top officials from the finance and revenue sectors in attendance.
The Head of Civil Service, Barr. Mohammed Sani Umar who briefed the Journalist said the approval covers Imams of Juma’at mosques and clerics of various Christian denominations, adding that the payments will be made without discrimination.
Speaking further, 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 Chief Economic Adviser, to the Bauchi State Governor, 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 N4.16 billion.
Haruna added that the state government took over salary payments in August 2024, after which complaints over salary issues ceased.