Nigeria Faces Prolonged Blackouts Due to Gas Shortage

Nigeria is facing extended blackouts primarily due to a gas supply shortage impacting thermal power plants. The Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) announced on Friday that electricity generation has dropped significantly, with current output averaging around 4,300 megawatts, which is considerably below the country's installed capacity.

The ongoing power outages began in early February following scheduled maintenance and gas supply infrastructure issues, particularly from the Nigerian National Petroleum Company and Seplat Energy, which disrupted gas delivery to several thermal power plants. As of February 23, 2026, the actual gas supply was approximately 692 million standard cubic feet per day, representing a significant deficit of 43% of the required volume for optimal operation.

This shortage has compelled NISO to implement load shedding to stabilize the grid, affecting electricity supply to homes and businesses nationwide. The situation underscores Nigeria's heavy reliance on gas-fired thermal plants, which account for 70% of the grid's electricity generation.