The Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) has initiated a large-scale retrenchment, affecting approximately 800 employees, occurring while Nigerians contend with increasing inflation, mounting living costs, and unreliable power delivery.
The job cuts, which started on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, are reportedly part of an internal restructuring and rightsizing programme underway at the utility firm, which provides service to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Kogi, Niger, and Nasarawa states.
Initial reports suggested that AEDC had intended to dismiss 1,800 workers, but the final number was reportedly reduced to 800 following intensive negotiations with the National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE) and the Senior Staff Association of Electricity and Allied Companies (SSAEAC).
A specimen of the dismissal letter, labeled “Notification of Disengagement from Service” and dated November 5, 2025, which was signed by AEDC’s Chief Human Resources Officer, Adeniyi Adejola, confirmed that the action was taken as part of the company’s “ongoing rightsizing process.”
The letter stipulated that all owed entitlements would be paid to the affected staff once they completed the exit clearance procedure.
“We regret to inform you that your services with the company will no longer be required, effective 5th November 2025. This decision follows the outcome of the company’s ongoing rightsizing exercise,” the letter read in part.
“Please note that applicable deductions, including PAYE, check-off dues, outstanding loans, and unretired advances (if any), will be made in accordance with company policy and relevant statutory provisions. AEDC acknowledges your contributions during your period of service and extends best wishes for success in your future endeavours.”
This development underscores the growing instability within Nigeria’s power sector, which continues to struggle with low investment, outdated infrastructure, and inadequate cost recovery, despite more than ten years of reforms and privatization.
AEDC has repeatedly faced financial and regulatory challenges in recent years. In 2023, the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) nearly suspended its operational license due to management disagreements and defaults on payments.
Analysts caution that this new round of layoffs could potentially strain AEDC’s already overworked staff and exacerbate customer dissatisfaction, especially in Abuja and surrounding states, where residents frequently complain about poor electricity supply and unfair billing.
AEDC’s Head of Customer Experience, Kenechukwu Ofili, confirmed the job cuts but characterized the event as a “routine restructuring process.”
“Yes, the process is ongoing and is being handled in line with the agreed framework. A formal statement will be issued soon,” he stated.
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