Power Generation Drops Amid Gas Supply Constraints, Says System Operator

Electricity generation on Nigeria’s National Grid has dropped due to gas supply disruptions from a vandalised upstream gas pipeline, the Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) announced on Tuesday.

The incident, which struck a critical gas pipeline within the upstream supply network, curtailed fuel availability to multiple gas-fired power plants, forcing several stations to scale back output and slashing overall grid capacity.

Nigeria’s national grid collapsed more than 12 times in 2024, while several collapses have already been recorded in 2025, the most recent occurring on September 10, and plunging large parts of the country into darkness.

NISO, responsible for real-time grid operations, said it has moved quickly to stabilise the system amid rising demand pressures as the festive season approaches.

In a statement to the public and stakeholders, NISO detailed the fallout: “Electricity generation on the National Grid has dropped due to gas supply constraints arising from the reported incident of gas pipeline vandalisation within the upstream gas supply network. The incident affected gas availability to several power generation facilities.”

“Consequently, several gas-fired power stations recorded low output, which resulted in reduced available generation capacity on the National Grid,” the operator added, underscoring the vulnerability of Nigeria’s power sector to sabotage in its gas-dependent generation mix.

Nigeria’s grid relies heavily on gas for about 80 per cent of its thermal power plants, making pipeline vandalism a recurring threat that has plagued the energy sector for years.

This latest disruption echoes similar attacks in the Niger Delta region, where militants and vandals have repeatedly targeted infrastructure, exacerbating chronic supply shortages.

NISO emphasised its proactive response to prevent cascading failures.

“In response to the development, NISO promptly activated established contingency measures to maintain system stability and reliability,” the statement read. These included “increased dispatch from available hydroelectric power stations, continuous generation re-dispatch, voltage control interventions, and other necessary operational actions to balance electricity supply with system demand.

“This collaboration involves gas suppliers, generating companies, and distribution utilities to reroute resources and restore flows.

The timing heightens concerns, as the Christmas and New Year holidays typically strain the grid with heightened commercial and residential demand.

“The situation highlights the importance of coordinated efforts to address gas supply disruptions, particularly as we approach the festive season, which is traditionally sensitive for grid operations,” NISO warned.

“NISO wishes to assure the public of its commitment to proactive grid management and the application of appropriate operational standards to ensure a secure, stable, and reliable electricity supply nationwide,” the statement concluded.

Analysts noted that while hydro ramp-ups provide a buffer—with stations like Kainji and Shiroro contributing more—prolonged gas shortages could still trigger load shedding in major cities like Lagos and Abuja.

The incident renews calls for enhanced pipeline security and diversification into renewable energy sources to shield the grid from such vulnerabilities.

NISO has yet to disclose the exact generation drop in megawatts or the pipeline’s location, but updates are expected as repairs progress.

“We are closely monitoring grid conditions, including system frequency and voltage profiles, while working with relevant stakeholders to mitigate the impact of the gas supply constraints,” the System Operator stated.