Nigeria’s electricity supply may experience temporary disruptions over the next few days following scheduled maintenance on a major gas facility that will constrain fuel delivery to several thermal power plants, the Nigerian Independent System Operator has announced.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the system operator disclosed that a key gas supply facility will undergo maintenance shutdown from February 12 to 15, with full supply expected to resume on February 16.
The development is projected to reduce gas availability to multiple grid-connected power stations, leading to lower electricity generation across the country.
Thermal plants expected to be directly affected include Egbin Power Plc, Azura Power, Sapele Power Plc and Transcorp Power Plc, while others such as NDPHC Sapele Power Plant, Olorunsogo Power Plant and Omotosho Power Plant could face indirect supply constraints due to wider gas network balancing challenges.
The temporary shortfall is expected to reduce available thermal generation capacity on the national grid, increasing the likelihood of load management measures, including possible load shedding.
NISO stated that the situation requires “careful system operation” to maintain grid stability and prevent broader outages.
“As part of our statutory responsibility, we will deploy real-time operational measures to safeguard the integrity and security of the national grid throughout the maintenance window,” the agency said.
The operator added that any power rationing would be carried out in a structured, transparent and equitable manner in coordination with Distribution Companies. Critical national infrastructure, essential services and security installations will be prioritised for supply.
Industry analysts note that Nigeria’s power sector remains heavily dependent on gas-fired thermal plants, which account for the majority of electricity generation. Consequently, disruptions in gas supply often result in reduced output and widespread outages.
To mitigate risks during the maintenance period, NISO said the National Control Centre will intensify monitoring of the grid, strengthen contingency planning and allocate available generation fairly among consumers.
While acknowledging the potential inconvenience to households and businesses, the operator emphasised that the scheduled maintenance is necessary to ensure the long-term safety, reliability and sustainability of upstream gas infrastructure supporting the power sector.
NISO appealed for public understanding and cooperation, assuring stakeholders that all operational decisions would strictly adhere to established grid security and reliability standards.
The notice comes as Nigeria continues efforts to stabilise electricity supply amid recurring generation shortfalls and infrastructure constraints.
