By Ayo Kehinde
Nigeria is currently experiencing widespread power outages and load shedding as electricity generation drops to approximately 4,300 megawatts (MW), the Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) has disclosed.
NISO on Friday attributed the decline to a significant shortfall in gas supply to thermal power plants, which constitute the majority of the nation’s generation capacity.
It explained that disruptions in gas supply directly impact generation capacity and overall grid output, leading to reduced energy allocation to electricity distribution companies (DisCos).
The shortage has left many consumers facing intermittent power supply, particularly during peak hours.
While the operator noted 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, findings by THEWILL revealed that as of February 23, 2026, actual gas supply stood at just 692.00 MMSCF per day, representing less than 43 per cent of the required volume.
This deficit has severely constrained generation output across the country.
NISO further stated that when total system generation drops significantly, load shedding becomes inevitable.
The agency implements this by dispatching available electricity in line with the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission’s (NERC) Multi-Year Tariff Order (MYTO) allocation percentages to maintain grid stability and prevent system disturbances.
This latest development highlights the persistent challenges in Nigeria’s power sector, where inadequate gas supply continues to undermine reliable electricity generation despite ongoing investments in infrastructure.
While regretting the inconvenience to electricity consumers and market participants, NISO assured that it is working closely with relevant stakeholders to improve gas supply and restore generation capacity.
The operator emphasized its commitment to ensuring full energy allocation to DisCos as soon as gas supply conditions improve.
