The Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) has attributed the declining power output to the generation shortfalls and gas supply limitations.
In a Friday statement shared on its official X handle, NISO notified the public and market participants that the power shortage sitting at the current average generation of approximately 4,300MW, is primarily due to inadequate gas supply to thermal generating solutions.
NISO explained that, “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 opfimal 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.”
NISO further explained that the current available gas supply is les that 43 percentage of the required volume to fuel the thermal generating units.
The statement added, “The available gas supply represents less than 43%% of the required volume, resuliting in constrained generation output. The curent low generation level is fundamentally driven by inadequate gas supply to thermal generating units, leading to reduced energy allocation to the Discos.
“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 all distribution networks to maintain grid stability and prevent system disturbances.”
NISO has apologized to the public for the disruptions in electricity supply, acknowledging the significant impact on both consumers and market participants.
“While we regret the inconvenience this situation may cause electricity consumers and affected market participants, 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 statement concluded.
