Nigeria’s electricity generation fell by 87.6 per cent on Monday, October 19, 2026, dropping from 3,840 megawatts (MW) at 7am to 476.70MW by 1pm, amid reports of power outages in parts of the country.
Data on the Nigerian Independent System Operator’s (NISO) monitoring portal showed that output declined by 3,363.30MW, with the sharp drop beginning around 12:40pm.
Major generating stations, including Egbin, Jebba, Shiroro and Kainji, recorded zero output, alongside several gas-fired plants.
Odukpani National Integrated Power Project, Omotosho and Sapele were among the few facilities still generating electricity.
Output rose marginally to approximately 480MW by 1:23pm before reaching 653.60MW at 2pm.
The decline coincided with consumer complaints about interruptions between 12:45pm and 1:20pm. Ikeja Electric attributed reduced supply hours across its network to insufficient electricity allocation from the national grid, while the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company reported a technical fault affecting some communities.
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NISO denied that the national grid had collapsed, maintaining that no system-wide disturbance had occurred. A senior official, speaking anonymously, said localised faults or temporary equipment trips could explain some interruptions and disclosed that a technical check had been ordered.
The cause of the generation shortfall had not been conclusively established at the time of reporting.
The incident comes amid longstanding concerns about Nigeria’s electricity infrastructure. On October 19, 2024, an explosion involving a current transformer at the Jebba transmission station triggered a major grid disturbance that forced several power plants offline. Supply was significantly restored across 33 states and the Federal Capital Territory by 1pm.
Nigeria also experienced a confirmed national grid collapse on September 10, 2025, highlighting persistent vulnerabilities in the electricity system.
On October 15, 2026, the Federal Government announced plans to develop eastern and western electricity grids to strengthen the network and reduce recurring disruptions.
Power Minister Joseph Tegbe said procurement preparations were underway and a nationwide technical audit had begun to identify infrastructure weaknesses. The government expects the proposed projects to begin delivering benefits within two to three years.
Monday’s sharp decline highlights the immediate challenge of maintaining reliable electricity supply while longer-term reforms remain in development.