Temporary Power Dip Expected as Major Gas Facility Undergoes Routine Maintenance in Nigeria
Nigeria’s electricity supply is set to experience a short-term reduction due to scheduled maintenance at a key gas production facility.
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) announced that Seplat Energy Plc, a major gas supplier to the NNPC Gas Infrastructure Company Limited (NGIC) pipeline network, will conduct routine maintenance on its facilities from February 12 to 15, 2026. This four-day exercise is a standard procedure focused on safety, asset integrity, and ensuring long-term reliability of critical gas infrastructure.
The maintenance will temporarily curtail gas flows into the NGIC network, leading to reduced gas availability for several thermal power plants. NNPC noted that this could modestly affect electricity generation levels during the period. To mitigate impacts, NNPC Gas Marketing Limited is actively engaging alternative suppliers to bridge supply gaps and preserve network stability. Full gas supply is projected to resume by February 16, 2026.
The Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) has confirmed receipt of the shutdown notification and anticipates constraints primarily at major thermal plants, including Egbin, Azura, Sapele, and Transcorp. Indirect effects may also reach NDPHC facilities at Sapele, Olorunsogo, and Omotosho due to broader gas balancing requirements across the grid.
NISO emphasized that the reduction in thermal generation capacity necessitates vigilant system management to uphold grid stability. Should load shedding become necessary, it will be implemented transparently and systematically in collaboration with Distribution Companies (DisCos), prioritizing critical national infrastructure, essential services, and security installations.
Consumers and stakeholders are assured of heightened monitoring and contingency measures at the National Control Centre throughout the maintenance window. This proactive approach underscores ongoing efforts to balance essential infrastructure upkeep with reliable power delivery amid Nigeria’s evolving energy landscape.
