Nigeria lingering power outages are primarily the result of inadequate gas supply to thermal power plants, the Nigerian Independent System Operator announced on Friday.
In a statement titled Declining Power Output Attributable to Generation Shortfalls and Gas Supply Limitations, released on its official X handle, the system operator said average available generation currently stands at about 4,300 megawatts, far below the nation installed capacity and peak demand estimated above 20,000 megawatts.
The outages began in early February following scheduled maintenance on key gas supply infrastructure by Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited and Seplat Energy. The maintenance temporarily disrupted gas deliveries to several thermal plants, triggering a nationwide drop in electricity generation. The situation has persisted due to continued gas supply constraints.
According to NISO, thermal plants require about 1,629.75 million standard cubic feet of gas per day to operate optimally. However, as of February 23, 2026, actual supply stood at roughly 692 million standard cubic feet per day, representing less than 43 per cent of required volume. The shortfall has significantly constrained generation output and reduced energy allocation to Distribution Companies.
Because gas fired thermal plants account for more than 70 per cent of Nigeria grid electricity, any disruption in gas availability directly impacts national supply. NISO confirmed it has implemented load shedding in line with allocation percentages approved by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission to stabilise the grid and prevent system disturbances.
The operator expressed regret over the inconvenience to consumers and said it is working with stakeholders to restore supply. However, until gas deliveries improve and generation capacity rebounds, Nigerians nationwide may continue to experience power rationing and blackouts.
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