“PENGASSAN Industrial Action Reduced Power Generation by Over 1,100MW” — NISO

Industrial action in Nigeria’s gas sector caused a significant drop in power generation on September 28, the Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) has reported. According to the agency, electricity output on the national grid fell by more than 1,100 megawatts, dropping from over 4,300MW in the early hours of the day to around 3,200MW at its lowest point.

NISO attributed the shortfall to disruptions in the gas supply chain following industrial action by the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN). The agency said the sudden reduction in available gas triggered widespread shortages, prompting emergency measures to stabilize the grid and prevent a nationwide blackout.

To mitigate the impact, NISO ramped up generation from major hydropower stations, adding over 400MW to compensate for the shortfall from gas-fired plants. The system operator also implemented real-time load adjustments, frequency support measures, and selective load shedding to maintain operational security and ensure critical loads continued to receive power.

“These timely interventions allowed the National Control Centre to sustain grid stability, minimize the impact of the labor-induced shortages, and prevent a system-wide blackout,” NISO said. The agency reaffirmed its commitment to proactive grid management and the use of best-in-class practices to maintain a secure and reliable electricity supply for the country.

PENGASSAN explained that its industrial action was in response to Dangote Refinery’s alleged dismissal of over 800 workers for joining the union. The association’s National Executive Council called on members to withdraw services starting at 12:01 a.m. on Monday.

The federal government has intervened in the dispute. A meeting chaired by Finance Minister and Coordinating Minister of the Economy Wale Edun addressed two major issues: the suspension of the naira-for-crude arrangement by Dangote Refinery and the concerns raised by PENGASSAN regarding the treatment of its members.