Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) has attributed Nigeria’s declining electricity generation to acute gas supply shortages affecting thermal power stations across the country.
In a press release issued by its management, NISO disclosed that the nation’s current average available power generation stands at about 4,300 megawatts, largely due to insufficient gas supply to major generating plants.
According to the statement, “the curent average available generation of approximately 4,300MW is primarily due to inadequate gas supply to thermal generating stations.” The operator explained that since thermal plants form the backbone of Nigeria’s energy mix, any disruption in gas supply has a direct impact on grid performance.
NISO further noted that “any disruption or limitation in gas supply directly affects available generation capacity and overall grid output,” adding that the reduced power supply has also affected the energy allocated to Distribution Companies (DisCos) nationwide.
Operational data cited in the release revealed that thermal plants require about 1,629.75 million standard cubic feet (MMSCF) of gas daily to operate at optimal capacity. However, as of February 23, 2026, actual gas supply stood at just 692.00 MMSCF, leaving a major supply gap.
The statement stressed that “the available gas supply represents less than 43% of the required volume, resulting in constrained generation output.” As a result, electricity generation has remained significantly below capacity, worsening supply challenges for consumers.
NISO explained that when power generation falls sharply, it is compelled to implement load shedding to protect the national grid. It said, “the Independent System Operator must implement load shedding across the system, while dispatching available energy in line with the NERC MYTO allocation percentages across all distribution networks.”
This process, it added, is guided by the framework of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to ensure stability and prevent system disturbances.
While acknowledging the hardship faced by electricity consumers and market participants, NISO expressed regret over the situation. The management stated, “we regret the inconvenience this situation may cause electricity consumers and affected moarket participants.”
It assured the public that efforts are ongoing to address the crisis, noting that “we will continue to work closely with relevant stakeholders to ensure full energy allocation as soon as gas supply improves and generation capacity is restored.”
The latest development underscores the critical role of gas infrastructure in Nigeria’s power sector and highlights the urgent need for sustained investment and coordination to stabilize electricity supply ahead of rising national demand.
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