NUEE strike disrupts electricity supply in four Nigerian states

The National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE) commenced an industrial action on Monday, October 19, 2026, resulting in the shutdown of electricity feeders across the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) franchise areas. The disruption affects customers in Edo, Delta, Ondo, and Ekiti states.

BEDC management attributed the strike to disputes regarding salary harmonisation, national minimum wage adjustments, and other employee welfare matters. While the company highlighted various welfare initiatives implemented since 2022—including salary increases, promotions, and long-service awards—the union continues to protest unresolved issues. The Edo State chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has expressed support for the workers, citing concerns over job security and unpaid wage adjustments.

The power outage poses significant economic risks to small and medium-scale enterprises, including manufacturers, hotels, and food vendors. Businesses in these sectors face potential losses due to spoiled perishable goods, increased reliance on expensive diesel and petrol generators, and diminished productivity.