Gas shortages cause major drop in Nigeria’s electricity supply
Nigeria is facing widespread power outages as thermal power plants struggle with inadequate gas supply. The Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) revealed that electricity generation has dropped significantly, leaving homes and businesses affected. The ongoing gas constraints have forced the operator to implement load shedding to stabilise the national grid. NISO assured the public that efforts are underway to restore supply as soon as possible.
TLDR
- NISO reported that average available generation is around 4,300 megawatts, far below the country’s installed capacity.
- Power outages began after scheduled maintenance on gas supply infrastructure disrupted deliveries to thermal plants.
- As of February 23, 2026, thermal power plants received only 692.00 mmscf of gas per day, less than 43% of the required volume.
- The shortfall in gas supply has led to reduced energy allocation to distribution companies and nationwide load shedding.
- NISO is working with stakeholders to restore full energy allocation once gas supply improves.
