State-owned oil firm NNPC has rejected claims that pipeline infrastructure issues are behind Nigeria’s ongoing power generation decline, creating a public split between energy suppliers and the national grid operator.
In a statement released from Abuja on 6 November 2026, NNPC Limited said its transportation network, managed by subsidiary NNPC Gas Infrastructure Company Limited (NGIC), remains fully operational with zero capacity constraints.
The clarification follows an announcement by the Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) on 5 November, which attributed lower power output to reduced gas supplies and low water levels at major hydroelectric dams.
NNPC Chief Corporate Communications Officer Andy Odeh noted that domestic gas production has grown by roughly 10% year-to-date in 2026, aligning with federal initiatives to monetize natural gas reserves.
According to NNPC, distinguishing between transportation availability and actual gas offtake at plant level is key:
Grid operator’s stance: NISO points to upstream gas supply shortages and hydroelectric constraints as primary factors behind current power drops.
NNPC’s stance: NGIC’s pipelines are ready to move gas; any shortfalls lie in commercial arrangements, power plant readiness, maintenance schedules, or offtake performance.
Proposed solution: A joint, data-driven operational review involving gas producers, pipeline operators, power generators, and grid controllers.
Nigeria regularly faces power grid stability challenges despite holding Africa’s largest proven natural gas reserves. Industry observers note that resolving the current shortfall will depend on whether key sector stakeholders can align their operational data.
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