Blackout looms as gas shortfall hits power stations
Gas Supply Constraints Threaten Yuletide Power Supply Across Nigeria
Nigerians may face a dark Christmas season as gas-to-power debts continue to affect electricity generation, with gas companies reportedly cutting supplies to thermal power plants, according to the Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) and power distribution companies.
Power Distribution Challenges
The Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) informed customers in the South-East that low system frequency, caused by gas constraints affecting generation companies, has necessitated load shedding across its network. Subsidiaries impacted include MainPower, TransPower, FirstPower, NewEra, and EastLand.
EEDC stated, “Efforts are currently being made by critical stakeholders in the electricity supply industry to address this challenge and restore normal power distribution. We sincerely apologise for the inconvenience and appreciate customers’ patience.”
Similarly, the Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company confirmed that load shedding across its franchise areas is due to poor generation and allocation from gas suppliers, urging customers to exercise patience while efforts continue to restore electricity supply.
Gas-to-Power Debt Crisis
Generation companies confirmed that gas constraints are affecting operations, with Joy Ogaji, CEO of the Association of Power Generation Companies, stating that gas producers have started cutting supplies due to unpaid debts. In early 2024, similar debt issues led to months of nationwide darkness, resolved only after government intervention.
On December 4, 2025, the Federal Government approved N185 billion for the payment of outstanding debts to gas suppliers to boost electricity generation. However, gas companies have continued to reduce supply despite the announcement, raising questions about liquidity management and the pace of payments.
Gas Pipeline Vandalism Exacerbates Crisis
The Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) reported that gas supply constraints were aggravated by vandalism in the upstream gas pipeline network. The disruption led to several gas-fired power plants operating at reduced output, sharply decreasing national generation capacity.
NISO stated, “The incident affected gas availability to several power generation facilities, forcing multiple thermal power stations to operate at significantly lower output. Emergency measures, including increased dispatch from hydroelectric stations, voltage control interventions, and generation re-dispatch, have been activated to maintain grid stability.”
The operator warned that the timing of the incident is particularly concerning as the festive season typically increases electricity demand, further stressing the already vulnerable national grid, which relies on natural gas for over 80% of its connected power plants.
Concerns and Outlook
With gas supply disruptions, pipeline vandalism, and unresolved payment issues, Nigeria’s power sector remains exposed to risks of prolonged outages. Stakeholders have emphasized the need for urgent government intervention to ensure stability in electricity supply, particularly during the high-demand Yuletide period.
For ongoing updates on electricity generation, gas supply issues, and energy sector developments, visit www.cjsoftflix.com.
