Nigeria’s electricity supply system, on Friday, suffered its first national grid collapse in 2026, with real-time data showing total generation falling to 0.00 megawatts, plunging large parts of the country into darkness.
Figures obtained from the grid performance dashboard published by the Nigerian Independent System Operator indicated that at 14:00 hours, real-time generation stood at 0.00MW, with only one generation company (Genco) reporting on the platform. All major power plants listed on the dashboard, including Afam, Alaoji, Egbin, Geregu, Jebba, Kainji, Odukpani and Okpai, were shown to be generating zero output at the time of the collapse.
The system disturbance also cascaded into the distribution end of the market, with load allocation to electricity distribution companies (DisCos) dropping sharply.
Data from the national load allocation page showed that total power allocated across the country stood at just 65MW, far below national demand.
According to the breakdown, Ibadan DisCo received the highest allocation of 50MW, while Benin DisCo was allocated 10MW and Abuja DisCo got 5MW.
Other DisCos, including Eko, Ikeja, Enugu, Jos, Kaduna, Kano, Port Harcourt and Yola, recorded zero allocation, underscoring the severity of the grid failure.
The collapse marks the first system-wide outage in 2026, reviving concerns over the persistent fragility of Nigeria’s electricity transmission network.
Industry operators have long warned that ageing infrastructure, frequent system disturbances and inadequate spinning reserve continue to expose the grid to sudden failures.
As at press time, neither the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) nor the system operator had issued an official explanation on the immediate cause of the collapse or a clear timeline for full restoration of supply.
The latest incident comes amid repeated assurances by authorities that ongoing investments under the Distribution Sector Recovery Programme and other interventions would enhance grid stability.
