WHY THERE’S CURRENTLY POOR ELECTRICITY SUPPLY ACROSS THE NATION

The Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) has said the national grid is receiving only one-third of gas supply needed to provide adequate electricity supply to Nigerians.

In a statement, the management of NISO said the shortage in gas supply has brought on low electricity supply across the country, leading to load shedding.

The statement noted that the development has caused the reduction of electricity generation to 4,300 Megawatts.

The statement added, “We hereby notify the general public and all market participants that the current average available generation of approximately 4,300MW is primarily due to inadequate gas supply to thermal generating stations.”

“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 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 supply requirements.”

It added that the available gas supply represents less than 43% of the required volume, resulting in constrained generation output.

The statement added, “The current low generation level is fundamentally driven by inadequate gas supply to thermal generating units, leading to reduced energy allocation to the DisCos.”

It stated that 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.

The statement said, “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.”