Why Nigeria is experiencing another power shortage

By Tolulope Oke

The Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) has attributed the ongoing power shortage across the country to generation shortfalls caused by inadequate gas supply to thermal power plants.

In a press release issued on Friday, NISO stated that the current average available generation stands at approximately 4,300MW, a level significantly below the optimal capacity of the grid. Thermal plants, which make up the majority of Nigeria’s electricity generation mix, are particularly affected by the gas constraints.

According to the system operator, thermal power plants require about 1,629.75 million standard cubic feet (MMSCF) of gas daily to operate at full capacity. However, as of February 23, 2026, actual gas supply was only around 692 MMSCF, representing less than 43 percent of daily requirements.

“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),” the release said.

NISO explained that the shortfall necessitates load shedding across the national grid while dispatching available electricity according to the NERC MYTO allocation percentages to maintain grid stability and prevent system disturbances.

The operator expressed regret for the inconvenience caused to electricity consumers and promised to continue working with relevant stakeholders to restore full energy allocation once gas supply improves.