Cynthia Ezegwu
The Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) has confirmed that a dispute between the Dangote Refinery and the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) has caused severe gas shortages, reducing national power generation by over 1,100 megawatts.
According to NISO, available generation on the National Grid fell sharply from over 4,300MW in the early hours of September 28, 2025, to about 3,200MW at the lowest point.
In a statement released on Tuesday, NISO said the shortages increased pressure on the grid, prompting emergency measures to stabilize supply and avert a nationwide blackout. To mitigate the impact, the agency increased generation from major hydropower stations, adding over 400MW to offset shortfalls from gas-fired plants.
NISO also implemented real-time load adjustments, frequency support measures, and selective load shedding to preserve operational security. The statement added:
“These timely actions enabled the NISO NCC to minimise the impact of the labour-induced gas shortages, sustain operational security, and maintain supply to critical loads, thereby averting a nationwide blackout.”
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The crisis follows PENGASSAN’s announcement of a nationwide strike, instructing members in offices, companies, institutions, and agencies to cease work from 12:01 am on Monday, September 29, 2025. Members stationed in field locations were directed to stop work from 6:00 am on Sunday, September 28, and commence a round-the-clock prayer vigil. The strike was triggered by the dismissal of over 800 Nigerian workers at the Dangote Petroleum Refinery.
The strike has led to a shutdown of major oil and gas regulatory agencies and critical industry operators, crippling core sector activities. Efforts by the Federal Government to mediate on Monday ended in a stalemate, with no resolution reached after hours of dialogue.
NISO reaffirmed its commitment to proactive grid management and operational excellence, emphasizing measures aimed at ensuring a secure and reliable electricity supply nationwide.