BEDC Begs NUEE To Call Off Strike, Lists Welfare Packages Since 2022

BEDC Begs NUEE To Call Off Strike, Lists Welfare Packages Since 2022

Habiba Sam 

Residents and businesses across the franchise area of the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) have been thrown into darkness following an industrial action embarked upon by the National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE).

The strike, which commenced at approximately 2:00 a.m. on Monday, October 19, 2026, saw the Union shut down BEDC's electricity feeders, significantly disrupting the Company's ability to supply electricity to customers across Edo, Delta, Ondo and Ekiti States.

In a statement signed by Engr. Jonathan Lawani for Management, BEDC said the Union's action relates to concerns over the consequential adjustment arising from the national minimum wage, salary harmonisation and other employee welfare matters.

While Management said it recognises the importance of these concerns and appreciates the dedication, sacrifices and contributions of its employees, it noted that it is necessary to provide the public with a clear account of the steps it has taken to improve staff welfare and address the issues raised.

According to BEDC, since assuming responsibility in October 2022, the current Management has prioritised organisational stability, employee welfare, improved working conditions and sustainable staff development.

The Company listed several initiatives introduced within the period:

 Management implemented salary increases across staff categories shortly after assuming office, with adjustments ranging from 5% to 70%.

 Between 2023 and 2025, 957 employees benefited from promotions, while 1,314 salary adjustments were implemented.

 Over 1,394 employees were recognised for years of dedication at a cost of over ₦125 million.

 Management cleared a backlog of outstanding exit benefits accumulated over about ten years, amounting to about ₦75 million.

A formal Condition of Service framework was established to provide a structured basis for employment terms and entitlements.

More than 1,000 employees benefited from local and international training programmes.

 Over 100 employees received quarterly performance cash incentives, at a total cost of over ₦68 million.

 The Company enhanced its HMO arrangements, introduced annual medical check-ups, and increased its group life insurance from ₦56.35 million to ₦103.15 million.

 Management also listed regular payment of salaries without delays, bereavement support worth over ₦40 million, TGIF and team-bonding activities, provision of PPE, resolution of about 98% of legacy tax matters, and end-of-year welfare packages.

On the current demands, BEDC said the issues are not being ignored and have been the subject of engagements with the Union, including meetings initiated by Management, the most recent held on October 7, 2026.

Regarding the consequential adjustment from the national minimum wage, Management said it established a dedicated committee comprising Management and Union representatives to examine the issues. The committee's work is yet to be concluded, and it is important that the process be allowed to reach a considered outcome.

On salary harmonisation, Management said it was agreed that an independent consultant would be engaged to undertake a structured review, taking into account the salary structure, employee categories, internal equity and financial implications. A prospective consultant has been identified, and arrangements are being progressed.

BEDC said while it respects the right of employees to express their concerns through lawful processes, the shutdown has resulted in significant disruption to customers.

The consequences, it said, extend beyond individual households to businesses, industries, healthcare facilities, public institutions and other essential services that depend on electricity.

"The resulting hardship is a matter of serious concern to Management. Customers should not have to bear prolonged consequences of a dispute that the parties are actively working to resolve," the statement read.

The Company therefore implored NUEE to discontinue the industrial action, consider the welfare of the wider public, and allow electricity supply operations to resume while discussions continue.

Management reaffirmed its commitment to addressing the issues raised, but noted that sustainable resolution requires dialogue, mutual understanding, due process and sufficient time to complete the reviews already initiated.

"Accordingly, Management calls on NUEE to immediately call off the picketing action, facilitate the restoration of electricity supply and return to the negotiation table in the collective interest of employees, customers and the communities BEDC serves," it said.

BEDC apologised for the inconvenience and hardship caused by the disruption and appealed to customers for patience and understanding, assuring them of its commitment to constructive engagement and reliable service delivery.