Electricity generation on the national grid has dropped below the 4,000-megawatt threshold as ongoing gas supply constraints continue to limit output from thermal power stations, according to the Nigerian Independent System Operator.
In a statement released on Thursday, March 5, 2026, the grid operator reported that total generation stood at 3,940.53 megawatts as of 05:00 hours.
It attributed the reduction to persistent shortages in gas supply, which have affected several power plants and reduced overall electricity output.
The operator disclosed that between 06:00 hours and 08:00 hours, additional generating units shut down due to insufficient gas availability, resulting in a further decline of about 292 megawatts in grid generation.
Data provided by the agency showed that thermal plants require approximately 1,588.61 million standard cubic feet of gas daily to operate at full capacity.
However, only 652.92 million standard cubic feet, roughly 40 percent of the required volume was supplied, creating a significant shortfall that has constrained electricity production.
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The system operator stated that it is collaborating with generation companies and gas suppliers to address the supply challenges and restore output.
Efforts are underway to stabilize gas delivery and improve operational performance of affected power plants.
Electricity supply in Nigeria remains heavily dependent on gas-fired generation, which provides the majority of power delivered to the national grid.
However, recurring issues such as pipeline disruptions, infrastructure limitations, and payment challenges within the power sector continue to affect reliability.
Authorities have reiterated commitments to strengthening domestic gas production and expanding energy infrastructure in order to improve electricity availability.
The grid operator pledged to keep stakeholders and consumers informed about developments affecting generation and network stability.
