Nigeria is battling widespread electricity disruptions following a sharp drop in power generation caused by severe gas supply shortages to thermal power plants, industry operators have confirmed.
In separate statements, the Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) and the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company PLC (EEDC) said the shortfall in gas supply has significantly crippled electricity production, forcing the implementation of load shedding across the country.
Gas Supply Falls Below 43% of Requirement
According to NISO, Nigeria’s current average available generation stands at about 4,300 megawatts (MW), a figure it attributed largely to inadequate gas supply to thermal generating stations.
“The available gas supply represents less than 43% of the required volume,” NISO management stated. “This is 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 Distribution Companies (DisCos).”
Operational data released by the system operator shows that thermal power plants require an estimated 1,629.75 million standard cubic feet (MMSCF) of gas per day to operate optimally. However, as of February 23, 2026, actual supply stood at just 692.00 MMSCF — a massive deficit that has weakened grid output nationwide.
Load Shedding Implemented to Stabilise Grid
As a result of the generation plunge, NISO confirmed that load shedding has been activated across the national grid to prevent system disturbances and maintain stability. It added that available energy is being distributed in line with the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission’s (NERC) MYTO allocation percentages across the various distribution networks.
“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,” NISO said.
EEDC Appeals for Patience
Echoing the concerns, EEDC said the development has drastically reduced the energy allocated to its franchise area, affecting customers across its network.
“The Enugu Electricity Distribution Company PLC (EEDC) appeals to its esteemed customers for understanding following the recent decline in power supply,” said Emeka Ezeh, Group Head, Corporate Communications at EEDC. “This situation is primarily due to inadequate gas supply to the thermal generating stations.”
Mr. Ezeh explained that the shortage has “significantly reduced the energy allocated to EEDC, thereby affecting power availability to our customers across the network.”
He confirmed that the Independent System Operator is implementing load shedding nationwide due to the drop in generation and the need to safeguard grid stability.
“We assure our customers that we will continue to liaise with relevant stakeholders hoping that the gas supply constraints and generation challenge will be resolved soon. We sincerely regret the inconvenience this situation may cause our esteemed customers and appreciate your continued patience and understanding,” he added.
Sector Vulnerability Exposed
The ongoing crisis underscores the fragile dependence of Nigeria’s electricity sector on gas-fired power plants and highlights the urgent need for sustainable solutions to recurring gas supply disruptions.
With generation hovering at 4,300MW — far below national demand — millions of households and businesses remain at the mercy of constrained supply, pending improvements in gas availability and restoration of full generation capacity.
