AEDC Sacks 800 Staff as Power Sector Crisis Deepens

By Diafa Doubra,

The Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) has laid off about 800 workers in a major retrenchment exercise triggered by mounting financial and operational challenges in Nigeria’s power sector.

The mass sack, which began on November 5, affected staff across several departments and coverage areas, including the Federal Capital Territory, Kogi, Niger, and Nasarawa states. Management sources said the decision was part of an ongoing “rightsizing” initiative aimed at improving efficiency and reducing overhead costs amid dwindling revenue collection and rising operational expenses.

Some affected workers described the exercise as sudden and unfair, alleging that the company failed to provide adequate notice or compensation. “Many of us were caught unawares. We just received emails terminating our employment without any prior discussion,” one former employee lamented.

Industry observers say the development reflects deeper problems within Nigeria’s power sector, including low energy generation, tariff shortfalls, and poor infrastructure. Labour unions have already vowed to challenge the move, warning that it could worsen unemployment and disrupt electricity supply in AEDC’s service areas.

The AEDC management, however, insists that the measure is necessary to keep the company financially viable and maintain service delivery despite sector-wide turbulence.