Sources told SaharaReporters that the lack of explanation for the disengagement had caused concern among staff, particularly those in positions including Survey Assistants.
Several disengaged employees of Niger Foods Security and Logistics Limited, a company allegedly owned by the Niger State government, have alleged several months of withheld salaries, unpaid overtime, and other allowances.
The staff said the terminations were abrupt and created uncertainty for affected employees.
Some disengaged employees, who spoke to SaharaReporters on condition of anonymity for fear of government reprisal, said they had reported unpaid overtime and allowances over several months with no response from management.
Sources told SaharaReporters that the lack of explanation for the disengagement had caused concern among staff, particularly those in positions including Survey Assistants.
SaharaReporters earlier reported that the layoffs coincided with Niger State’s decision to begin selling farming tractors, originally acquired under its agricultural programme, in order to service debts and make part-payments for the equipment.
Employees at Niger Foods Security and Logistics Limited were said to be owed several months’ wages.
Niger Foods Security and Logistics Limited was established to drive large-scale agricultural production, improve food processing and storage, and develop farm estates across the state’s 25 local government areas. Its mandate includes enhancing crop and livestock yields and reducing post-harvest losses.
Documents reviewed by SaharaReporters, including the Offer of Employment dated June 24, 2024 and the Disengagement Letter dated January 12, 2026, show the employees were hired on July 1, 2024, with a six-month probation period and an annual salary of N1,800,000. The disengagement date was recorded as January 12, 2026.
The disengagement letter, signed by Safiya Usman, General Manager Administration, reads: "We write to formally notify you that your services are no longer required by the organization. Consequently, your employment is hereby disengaged with effect from January 12th 2026.
“We appreciate the contribution you made during your period of service and wish you success in your future endeavors.
“Please ensure that all company properties in your possession are returned to the Admin department and that all handover processes are completed on or before your last working day."
One affected staff member, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the letter did not provide a reason for the disengagement.
The employment contract states, "We reserve the right to terminate your employment at any time without notice or payment in lieu of notice for good cause."
Employees said the disengagement letters did not cite any misconduct or good cause.
Several employees said they are seeking payment of owed salaries, leave pay, and other entitlements in line with their employment contracts.
Others, speaking on condition of anonymity, said they are consulting legal counsel and intend to pursue redress through appropriate labour authorities.