Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) has attributed intermittent power supply across the country to generation shortfalls caused by inadequate gas supply to thermal generating stations.
According to the system operator, available operational data indicate 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.
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 requirements.
The available gas supply represents less than 43 percent of the required volume, resulting in constrained generation output.
In a statement issued on Friday, February 27, 2026, NISO said the situation has reduced average available generation to approximately 4,300MW.
“The current low generation level is fundamentally driven by inadequate gas supply to thermal generating units, leading to reduced energy allocation to the DisCos,” the statement said.
Thermal plants account for the dominant share of Nigeria’s generation mix; therefore, any disruption or limitation in gas supply directly affects available generation capacity and overall grid output.
NISO added that, given the circumstances, it has been compelled to implement load shedding across the system while dispatching available energy in line with the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) MYTO allocation percentages across all distribution networks to maintain grid stability and prevent system disturbances.
The system operator expressed regret over the inconvenience caused to electricity consumers and affected market participants, assuring that it would continue to work closely with relevant stakeholders to ensure full energy allocation as soon as gas supply improves and generation capacity is restored.
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