Move raises fears over food security and job losses in Niger state
Niger State has commenced the sale of farming tractors to service outstanding debts as a government-owned agricultural company struggles with severe financial difficulties, leading to the layoff of several workers.
Sahara Reporters disclosed that the tractors, which were originally acquired to support mechanised farming and boost agricultural productivity across the state, are being disposed of as part of an emergency debt-repayment strategy. The company’s liabilities are said to have accumulated over time, leaving management with limited options to remain operational.
Multiple sources indicated that the asset liquidation exercise has already begun, raising concerns among farmers who depend on the tractors for land preparation and other essential farming activities. Stakeholders fear the development could undermine food production efforts and worsen economic conditions in rural communities.
In addition to selling off the tractors, the company has reportedly disengaged a number of employees in a bid to reduce operational costs. Affected workers were said to have been laid off without clear assurances regarding severance benefits or future recall, further deepening uncertainty within the workforce.
The situation has sparked public criticism, with observers questioning the sustainability of the state’s agricultural policies and calling for urgent government intervention to prevent further decline in the sector. As of the time of filing this report, the Niger State Government had yet to release an official statement on the development.
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