Nigeria’s Power Generation Drops 37%, Complaints Against DISCOs Surge

Nigeria is facing a serious drop in power generation, which has decreased by 37% to about 3,886 megawatts. This decline has raised concerns for both households and businesses that rely on electricity. In the first half of 2026, electricity consumers filed 184,024 complaints against Distribution Companies (DISCOs).

This situation comes shortly after the Minister of Power, Joseph Tegbe, reported that power generation had reached a peak of 5,330 megawatts in August and September. The recent decline raises questions about the stability of the power sector’s improvements.

According to data from the Nigerian Independent System Operator, the drop in power generation is likely to worsen electricity supply across the country. Many people and businesses are increasingly turning to generators due to high operating costs and rising fuel prices.

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) noted that the main issues reported by consumers include problems with metering, billing, and service interruptions. Complaints to DISCOs increased slightly by about 1% in the second quarter of 2026, compared to the first quarter, with a total of 92,407 complaints received.

NERC reported that DISCOs managed to resolve about 80% of the complaints they received. However, issues with metering, billing, and service interruptions remain the most common complaints.

Ikeja Electric, one of the DISCOs, stated that reduced electricity supply hours were due to a shortfall in power allocated to them from the national grid. They acknowledged the inconvenience and assured customers they are working to improve the situation.

The financial struggles of DISCOs are also evident, with NERC reporting that the average losses for these companies reached over 36% in the second quarter of 2026. This is significantly higher than the target of about 17%. Kaduna DISCO had the highest losses, far exceeding its target.