The Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) has successfully preserved the stability of the national electricity grid despite facing significant generation deficits caused by industrial action from the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN).
The strike disrupted critical segments of the gas supply chain, resulting in widespread shortages that severely affected the output of gas-powered plants throughout Nigeria.
NISO reported that electricity generation on the National Grid plunged dramatically from over 4,300 megawatts (MW) in the early hours of Sunday, September 28, 2025, down to nearly 3,200 MW at its lowest point, marking a notable decline in available power.
This abrupt drop posed a serious threat to grid stability, raising alarms about the possibility of extensive blackouts across the country.
In tackling this urgent issue, NISO promptly deployed a series of contingency protocols aimed at maintaining the grid’s security, reliability, and operational balance.
A key component of their strategy involved maximizing hydropower generation, with major hydroelectric facilities boosting output by more than 400 MW.
This increase played a vital role in offsetting the shortfall caused by the reduced gas-fired generation capacity.
Additionally, the System Operator employed dynamic generation dispatch and load balancing techniques in real time to align electricity supply with demand, preventing frequency drops that could have triggered widespread outages.
Continuous support for voltage and frequency was maintained through reactive power management and vigilant reserve monitoring, ensuring the power system‘s resilience under pressure.
Recognizing the gravity of the situation, NISO also implemented demand-side management measures. Controlled load shedding was introduced as a last-resort tactic to prevent a total collapse of the system, allowing for an equitable distribution of the limited power available.
These meticulously coordinated actions successfully averted a nationwide blackout, safeguarding critical infrastructure and essential services from disruption.
The National Control Centre, under NISO’s leadership, commended the swift and effective response that minimized interruptions and maintained a steady power supply during this unprecedented operational challenge.
This incident highlights NISO’s unwavering commitment to proactive grid oversight, operational excellence, and adherence to international standards in electricity system management.
NISO reaffirmed its pledge to provide a secure, stable, and dependable electricity supply that fosters economic development and enhances quality of life across Nigeria.
