The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) announced on Tuesday, 4th February, that all direct hire personnel will be placed on administrative leave globally, effective Friday, 7th February 2025. However, this decision excludes personnel responsible for mission-critical functions, core leadership, and specially designated programmes.
The move follows President Donald Trump’s decision to shut down the agency over corruption allegations.
In a notice posted on its website, USAID stated that leadership will notify essential personnel by Thursday, 6th February, at 3:00 pm EST (9:00 pm West African Standard Time, Lagos).
The agency wrote: “On Friday, February 7, 2025, at 11:59 pm (EST) all USAID direct hire personnel will be placed on administrative leave globally, with the exception of designated personnel responsible for mission-critical functions, core leadership and specially designated programs. Essential personnel expected to continue working will be informed by Agency leadership by Thursday, February 6, at 3:00pm (EST).
“For USAID personnel currently posted outside the United States, the Agency, in coordination with missions and the Department of State, is currently preparing a plan, in accordance with all applicable requirements and laws, under which the Agency would arrange and pay for return travel to the United States within 30 days and provide for the termination of PSC and ISC contracts that are not determined to be essential. The Agency will consider case-by-case exceptions and return travel extensions based on personal or family hardship, mobility or safety concerns, or other reasons. For example, the Agency will consider exceptions based on the timing of dependents’ school term, personal or familial medical needs, pregnancy, and other reasons. Further guidance on how to request an exception will be forthcoming.
“Thank you for your service.”
The decision to place personnel on administrative leave has raised concerns about potential disruptions to USAID’s humanitarian and development programmes worldwide, including its significant efforts in Nigeria.
USAID, which operates in over 100 countries, plays a crucial role in addressing global health crises, food insecurity, and economic development. However, its ongoing projects, including the recent $2.3 million commitment for malaria drug purchases in Nigeria, are now at risk due to allegations of corruption and money laundering practices within the agency.
The announcement comes amid increasing scrutiny over USAID’s effectiveness. President Donald Trump and billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk have both been vocal in their criticism. Musk, who was recently appointed by Trump to oversee the potential merger of USAID with the State Department, referred to the agency as a “criminal organisation.”
Musk also revealed that Trump had agreed to shut down USAID following days of speculation, after the agency’s funding was frozen and employees were placed on leave.
