Power restoration is currently underway across Nigeria following the first total grid collapse of 2026 on Friday, January 23.
The Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) reported a major system disturbance at 12:40 pm on Friday, January 23, which effectively shut down the national transmission network.
According to preliminary findings, the failure was triggered by the simultaneous tripping of several 330kV transmission lines and the sudden disconnection of multiple generating units.
Recovery efforts, guided by “black-start” procedures, commenced at 1:15 pm, with electricity supply gradually returning to various regions.
“As of the time of this update, electricity supply has been successfully restored to Abuja, Osogbo, Benin, Onitsha, Sakete, Jebba, Kainji, Shiroro and parts of Lagos, while restoration efforts are continuing progressively in other parts of the country,” NISO stated.
The collapse earlier in the day had seen real-time grid data indicate that national generation fell to 0.00 megawatts, with load allocation to most electricity distribution companies dropping to zero, effectively plunging the country into darkness.
NISO said a detailed investigation into the root and contributory causes of the disturbance was ongoing, adding that the full restoration and stabilisation of the grid remains a top operational priority.
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