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A critical shortage of natural gas supply has resulted in a significant reduction in electricity generation on Nigeria's national grid, according to the Nigerian Independent System Operator.

NISO reported that the gas deficit forced multiple thermal power plants to shut down operations on Thursday, collectively cutting approximately 292 megawatts from available generation capacity.

The operator disclosed that total grid generation stood at 3,940.53 megawatts in the early morning hours, already below optimal levels due to insufficient gas availability at various generating facilities.

The situation deteriorated further between 6 a.m. and 8 a.m. when several generating units were compelled to cease operations, resulting in the substantial power loss.

Data compiled by the operator revealed that electricity distribution companies were allocated just 2,749 megawatts from the 3,118.9 megawatts generated by 15 power plants as of 4 p.m.

NISO indicated that thermal plants require approximately 1,588.61 million standard cubic feet of gas daily to operate at full capacity. However, actual gas supply reached only 652.92 million standard cubic feet—representing just 40 percent of the required volume.

The ongoing gas shortage has further constrained the volume of electricity available for distribution across the national grid, exacerbating persistent power supply difficulties throughout the country.

NISO stated it is collaborating with generating companies and gas suppliers to monitor developments and restore power generation as gas supplies improve.