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The Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) has attributed the recent partial collapse of the national electricity grid to ongoing gas supply shortages, directly linked to the vandalism of the Escravos-Lagos gas pipeline on December 10, 2025.
The grid disturbance occurred at exactly 2:01 p.m. on Monday, December 29, 2025, causing widespread power outages across various regions.
NISO explained that the lingering effects of the pipeline vandalism had significantly reduced gas availability to thermal power plants, leaving the grid in a fragile state and more susceptible to disruptions.
Preliminary findings indicate that the incident involved the tripping of several generating units and key 330kV transmission lines, which compounded the existing vulnerabilities created by the gas crisis.
Despite the challenges, the Delta power generation complex successfully operated in island mode at the 132kV level, delivering 114 megawatts from four units at the Delta Thermal Power Station.
The isolated operation, NISO said ensured continued electricity supply to critical areas, including Oghara, Amukpe, Benin, and Efunrun substations.
NISO’s team at the National Control Centre in Osogbo responded promptly, deploying dispatch tools and monitoring systems to manage the situation.
By late Monday, full power restoration was achieved, with grid stability normalized nationwide.
Ongoing investigations are focused on pinpointing the precise triggers of the disturbance, while NISO has committed to implementing stronger safeguards against similar events.
The operator emphasized its resolve to enhance grid resilience through proactive measures, underscoring the need for improved security around vital gas infrastructure to prevent future supply disruptions.
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