Bauchi’s Priorities Questioned as Government Approves Stipends for Religious Leaders -By Yasir Shehu Adam

The Bauchi State Government has approved monthly stipends for Imams and Pastors across the state, a decision that has generated mixed reactions among citizens, especially at a time when critical sectors such as education and healthcare are struggling.

The announcement followed a closed-door meeting with Governor Bala Mohammed, after which the Head of Civil Service, Mohammed Sani Umar, and the Governor’s Chief Economic Adviser, Yahuza Haruna, briefed journalists in Bauchi.

According to Umar, the State Economic Council approved monthly stipends for Imams of various Juma’at mosques and Pastors across different churches in the state. He stressed that the allowances would cut across all Islamic sects and Christian denominations.

“The issue of allowances for Imams and Pastors is irrespective of sects and denominations. The final step is to assess the economic and financial implications for proper implementation,” Umar said.

He further revealed that the council also deliberated on the commencement of salary payments to newly created Emirs and District Heads across Bauchi State, noting that the government has made provisions for their sustenance.

With this move, Bauchi joins other states that provide financial support to religious leaders. In 2025, the Sokoto State Government introduced monthly allowances for Imams, their deputies, mu’azzins, and Juma’at mosques. Similarly, in early 2026, Zamfara State approved salary upgrades for over 11,300 Imams and Islamic clerics, spending about ₦81.8 million monthly.
While proponents argue that religious leaders play vital roles in moral guidance and social stability, many citizens in Bauchi believe the government’s priorities are misplaced.

Misplaced Priorities and Growing Governance Burden

Beyond stipends for religious leaders, the Bauchi State Government has also created new emirates and appointed about 141 new district heads across the state. These decisions have significantly increased the financial burden on the state, placing long-term obligations on future administrations.

Critics argue that while traditional institutions have cultural value, the creation of new emirates and district heads does not improve access to education, healthcare, or economic opportunities for ordinary citizens. These structures neither teach children in overcrowded classrooms nor provide medical care to patients in poorly equipped hospitals.

At a time when public schools in Bauchi State are in severe condition—lacking teachers, classrooms, and learning materials—and public hospitals are short of medical personnel, drugs, and basic equipment, expanding administrative and traditional structures raises serious concerns.

Education and Health Neglected

Education and healthcare are the backbone of any developing society. Without them, there can be no sustainable development or social stability. Illiteracy does not promote peace, and weak healthcare systems only deepen poverty and suffering.

Across Bauchi State, many young people are at risk of dropping out of school due to lack of financial support. Small-scale business owners struggle without access to grants or soft loans that could help them grow and create jobs.

Instead, government attention appears focused on flyovers, massive buildings such as the International Conference Centre (ICC), and road projects that are not urgently needed. While infrastructure is important, such projects do not directly secure the future of Bauchi’s youth or address the immediate challenges facing the state.

Why Now?

Another troubling question is why allowances for Imams and Pastors, as well as expanded traditional structures, are being introduced now. For nearly seven years of administration, these were not treated as priorities.

Many citizens believe there may be political or administrative motives behind these decisions, especially as they create long-term financial commitments that future governments must sustain. Transparency and accountability are therefore crucial.

A Call for Responsible Governance

This argument is not against religion or traditional institutions. Rather, it is a call for responsible governance and proper prioritization. The Bauchi State Government should channel its limited resources toward improving public education, strengthening healthcare systems, empowering youths, and supporting small businesses.

These sectors have a direct and lasting impact on citizens’ lives and the economic future of the state.

I am not in support of these policies. I call on the Bauchi State Government to rethink its priorities and focus on what truly benefits the people. Education and health must come first.

Yasir Shehu Adam (Dan Liman)
Journalist and Writer from Bauchi