NISO power generation drops due to persistent gas supply constraints, affecting thermal plants and reducing national grid output across Nigeria

The Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) has attributed recent inconsistencies in electricity supply across Nigeria to persistent gas supply constraints affecting thermal power plants.

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The announcement was made in a statement released by NISO management on Thursday, 5 March 2026.

NISO reported that total electricity generation on the national grid stood at 3,940.53 megawatts as of 05:00 hours, below the expected capacity due to inadequate gas supply.

Several generating units were forced to shut down between 06:00 and 08:00 hours, resulting in a cumulative reduction of approximately 292 megawatts during the period.

Operational data indicated that thermal power plants require roughly 1,588.61 million standard cubic feet (MMSCF) of gas per day to function optimally.

Actual supply, however, was only about 652.92 MMSCF, representing 40% of the required gas.

This shortfall directly contributed to the current electricity generation inadequacy.

NISO emphasised that it is working closely with affected Generation Companies (GenCos) and gas suppliers to monitor and stabilise the situation.

The operator is also implementing operational measures to maintain grid stability while managing the impact of reduced generation.

“The System Operator continues to take necessary operational measures to maintain grid stability while managing the impact of the reduced generation on the network,” the statement read.

“NISO remains committed to keeping stakeholders and the public informed on developments affecting the national grid.”

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The agency urged Nigerians to anticipate potential fluctuations in electricity supply until gas deliveries to thermal plants return to optimal levels.