Layoffs, forced resignation, leave in The Punch, The Nation, others

Many journalists and other staff of media houses in the country have lost their jobs or sent on forced leave as part of measures to cope with the impact of COVID-19 and other challenges being faced by the industry.

Some have opted to pay their staff a percentage of normal monthly salaries, while others have neither paid outstanding payments nor announced any decision.

The wave of job loss which is expected to spread across the industry has led to a call for a review of media operations in the country and recommendations of new business models.

Below is the compilation of our updates on the situation in some media houses.

The Punch

Friday was a day of grief at the company as more than 50 staff were issued sack letters, but with the option of resigning their appointments.

Those affected cut across various desks, bureau and departments.

The advert department was said to have been worst hit with over twenty staff sent off.

While all the displaced staff would be entitled to one month’s salary in lieu of notice, those who have spent up till ten years and above will have their long service award monitised.

The Managing Director of the company, Mr Ademola Osinubu had earlier this month in an unusual memo to the staff lamented the impact of the coronavirus crisis on the company and hinted of some measures to be taken.

“Before the pandemic, the company’s broad reengineering plan was well underway. The pace of implementation will increase to complement the recent proactive measures that the company has put in place to mitigate the impact of the pandemic on our health and operations.

“ In the days ahead, the company will be exploring additional ways to keep our business afloat and thriving. While we do so, we shall take due cognisance of the interest of staff, the threats to our industry and the tremors within the Nigerian economy.

” However, one thing is certain: the company will have to adjust all facets of its operations to reflect the realities of these trying times. Such adjustments are imminent and inevitable,” Osinubu stated.

The Nation

Many staff of the company have also been sent on three months compulsory leave on twenty per cent salary subject to review after the expiration.

Those retained will be paid fifty per cent of their salaries and allowances.

In the letter issued to affected editorial and non-editorial staff, the company said the decision was taken to ensure it remains afloat.

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The review of the effect of the situation according to the company “has left us with no choice than some painful decision. These decisions are in the best interest of our company and its key stakeholders, especially staff.

“During this period you are expected to stay away from the office business premises. You are not expected to render any service to THE NATION in any form. You are free to accept any job offer during the period but do inform us of such a development

Nigeria Info, Cool, Wazobia

The forced leave in the company is until further notice without pay.

The letter the affected staff by the Human Resources Officer stated as follows:

“This notice is to inform you that your position is included in this furlough and as such, you are being placed on a temporary, unpaid leave of absence effective, May 12, 2020 until further notice.

“ It is important to note that your employment continues to be at-will and nothing in this notice or other furlough communications is intended as an express or implied contract.

“ If you find alternate employment during this period and do not intend to return to work at Info – FM Radio Nigeria Ltd, please notify human resources immediately of your voluntary resignation.

“ The Management of Globe Broadcasting and Communications thank you for your understanding and will notify you once the situation changes for the better or hopefully normalizes.”

Daily Trust

Information reaching us confirmed that some unspecified number of staff were disengaged.

Details of the situation in other media house will be updated as soon as we have them.