By Erewunmi Peace

Nigeria’s electricity generation has fallen below 4,000 megawatts (MW), raising concerns about increased power outages and unstable supply across the country.

According to the Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO), total electricity generation recently dropped to around 3,940 MW. The shortfall is primarily linked to a persistent shortage of natural gas needed to operate thermal power plants.

NISO reports that several generating units were forced to shut down or operate below capacity due to insufficient gas supply, resulting in a loss of roughly 292 MW in available generation capacity. This has affected electricity distribution, particularly in urban areas with high demand.

The report also highlights that while Nigeria has installed generation capacity far above this level, challenges in fuel supply, infrastructure, and sector liquidity continue to keep generation low.

Power sector experts warn that continued gas constraints could lead to longer outages, voltage instability, and increased reliance on private generators for households and businesses.

Officials urge stakeholders in the energy sector to address fuel supply and infrastructure gaps to stabilize generation and prevent further disruption to electricity services.