By Our Reporter
The Bauchi State Government has approved monthly stipends for imams and pastors across the state, following savings realised from the removal of ghost workers from the state payroll.
The approval was disclosed after a closed-door meeting with Governor Bala Mohammed by the State Head of Civil Service, Mohammed Sani Umar, and the Governor’s Chief Economic Adviser, Yahuza Haruna.
Briefing journalists in Bauchi, Umar said the decision was taken by the State Economic Council and would cover imams of Juma’at mosques and pastors of various Christian denominations across the state.
He explained that the stipends would be paid without discrimination based on sect or denomination, adding that the government was currently assessing the financial and economic implications for effective implementation.
Umar also revealed that the council deliberated on the commencement of salary payments for newly created emirates and district heads in the state, noting that adequate cash flow had been provided to support their sustenance.