The Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) has indicated that the inadequate power supply experienced in Benin City and surrounding regions stems from a shortfall in the energy allocated to it from the national grid.
In a public statement, the company informed consumers and market participants that the current national generation capacity, hovering around 4,300MW, is primarily hampered by insufficient gas supply to thermal power plants.
This announcement follows a protest by human rights activists and youths in Benin City on Monday, expressing their frustration over erratic power supply.
Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State joined the demonstrators at Ring Road, appealing for calm and pledging to engage stakeholders promptly to address the issue.
Okpebholo voiced his support for the protesters, acknowledging that electricity challenges are a statewide concern.
"I was just passing by and saw people gathered here at Ring Road. I stopped to find out what the issue was, and they said you were protesting. I said, yes, we are all youths, and I have come to join you," the governor stated.
He emphasized that any disadvantage faced by Edo residents impacts the entire state.
"When we talk about short-changing Edo people, it affects all of us — our parents in the villages, our brothers and sisters in the cities, and everyone standing here. Why should anyone frustrate Edo people?"
BEDC further explained that the reduction in power from the national grid has led to decreased energy distribution to all distribution companies across the country, including BEDC Electricity Plc.
The company also noted that the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) is undertaking maintenance on the 330kV Benin/Ajaokuta Line 2, which affects four of BEDC's 33kV feeders, impacting areas such as Uniben, Ugbowo, Oluku, and Ihovbor.
"BEDC is collaborating with all relevant stakeholders to address this challenge. We appeal to our esteemed customers to bear with us during this challenging time."
BEDC highlighted that the lack of adequate gas supply to thermal generating stations is a significant factor affecting its operations within the state.
"Given that thermal plants account for the dominant share of Nigeria’s generation mix, any disruption or limitation in gas supply directly affects available generation capacity and overall grid output.
"Consequently, the current energy allocated to distribution companies (DisCos) reflects the reduced supply available on the grid.
"Available operational data indicates that thermal power plants collectively require an estimated 1,629.75 million standard cubic feet (MMSCF) of gas per day to operate at optimal capacity. However, as of February 23, 2026, actual gas supply to the stations stood at approximately 692.00 MMSCF, representing a significant shortfall in daily gas supply requirements.
"The available gas supply represents less than 43 per cent of the required volume, resulting in constrained generation output. The current low generation level is fundamentally driven by inadequate gas supply to thermal generating units, leading to reduced energy allocation to the DisCos."
BEDC elaborated on the consequences of system-wide generation drops:
"When total system generation drops significantly, the Independent System Operator must implement load shedding across the system, while dispatching available energy in line with the NERC MYTO allocation percentages across ofl distribution networks to maintain grid stability and prevent system disturbances.
"While we regret the inconvenience this situation may cause electricity consumers and affected market participants, we wilcontinue to work closely with relevant stakeholders to ensure full energy allocation as soon as gas supply improves and generation capacity is restored."
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