The Kano Electricity Distribution Company (KEDCO) has officially suspended the industrial action initiated by its workforce. This decisive move comes after the company disbursed outstanding arrears totaling a substantial N170 million. Furthermore, KEDCO has made a firm commitment to settle N174 million in 2025 bonus payments, which will be processed during the February 2026 salary cycle.
Resolution Through Constructive Dialogue
According to a press statement released by the Head of Corporate Communications, Sani Bala Sani, the suspension follows what the company described as productive engagements and concrete resolutions achieved by all involved parties. The decision was reached after extensive consultations and negotiations, which were meticulously aimed at addressing long-standing employee welfare concerns and restoring operational stability across KEDCO's network.
The management publicly acknowledged the instrumental efforts of several key stakeholders in resolving the impasse. These include the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), the Bureau of Public Enterprise, Future Energies Africa (FEA)—the core investors in KEDCO—and the Kano State Ministry of Power and Renewable Energy. Their collaborative and constructive roles were pivotal in reaching a mutually acceptable agreement.
Addressing Inherited Financial Obligations
The statement highlighted that resolving inherited issues, particularly those relating to unpaid pension obligations, employee emoluments, and various benefits, has remained a key priority. This focus intensified following the restructuring exercise that brought FEA on board as the new core investor. KEDCO management noted that significant progress is being made and expressed confidence that its current strategic plan and trajectory will fully resolve these inherited financial challenges.
As part of the specific agreements reached, KEDCO confirmed the payment of 13th-month salary (bonus) arrears amounting to One Hundred and Fifty Million Naira (N150,000,000). This was paid alongside appraisal bonus arrears of Twenty Million Naira (N20,000,000), which date back to 2019 and 2022. The cumulative settlement for these payments stands at N170 million.
Future Commitments and Preventive Measures
In addition to the immediate payments, the company has pledged to settle the 2025 13th-month salary arrears (bonus) of N174 million. This payment is scheduled to be made during the February 2026 salary cycle and will be disbursed alongside regular salary payments. To proactively prevent future disputes and address more complex outstanding matters, the parties have also agreed to establish a broader, more inclusive engagement platform.
The statement elaborated on this initiative, noting, “An expanded meeting involving representatives from the NLC Secretariat, the Electricity Labour Unions, and the Board of KEDCO will be convened to address other pending complex issues. This collaborative approach ensures lasting solutions that serve the interests of all parties.”
Immediate Suspension and Worker Protections
Following the ratification of these agreements, KEDCO confirmed that the strike has been called off with immediate effect. The company emphasized that all sides have accepted a crucial protection clause for the workers. Management stated, “Based on these agreements, the industrial action has been suspended with immediate effect. All parties have committed to a no-victimization clause, ensuring that no worker or stakeholder shall face reprisals arising from this action.”
Customer Assurance and Service Normalization
KEDCO also took the opportunity to express its sincere appreciation to customers for their patience and understanding during the period of disruption. The company noted that new and enhanced resolution frameworks are being developed to prevent a recurrence of such actions.
“KEDCO Management appreciates its customers’ understanding and patience during this period. Enhanced resolution frameworks are being developed to ensure no recurrence of this type of action happens under our watch,” the statement read.
The DisCo assured customers that electricity supply operations have now normalized across all its franchise areas. It added that concerted efforts are ongoing to improve overall service delivery and reliability. “We assure our customers of our continued dedication to providing a reliable and efficient electricity supply. We remain committed to improving service delivery, maintaining harmonious labor relations, and ensuring sustainable operations that benefit all stakeholders,” KEDCO concluded.
