Federal Government Establishes Task Force to Address Gas Supply Issues Hindering Power Generation

The Federal Government has established a Gas-to-Power Monitoring Committee to tackle the persistent gas supply challenges that have been hindering electricity generation in the country, according to Obas Esiedesa.

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At the committee's inauguration in Abuja, Minister of Power Chief Adebayo Adelabu emphasized that this move marks a crucial step towards addressing one of the most significant constraints in the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI).

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In January, gas companies substantially reduced the volume of gas supplied to power generation companies due to a $1.3 billion debt, resulting in a drastic drop in power generation to the national grid.

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Chief Adebayo Adelabu noted that gas-fired power plants account for approximately 80 per cent of Nigeria's electricity generation, yet they continue to face setbacks due to supply disruptions, pipeline vandalism, mounting debts to gas producers, and weak coordination across the value chain, as stated by his media aide, Bolaji Tunji.

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The minister stated that this initiative demonstrates the Federal Government's determination to put an end to the longstanding issues that have been limiting generation capacity and undermining reliable electricity supply.

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The committee was formed following discussions at the first quarter 2026 Ministerial Power Sector Working Group meeting, where key challenges such as infrastructure gaps, liquidity constraints, and pricing issues were identified.

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According to the minister, the committee will monitor and drive the resolution of critical bottlenecks, including the repair and maintenance of damaged gas pipelines, settlement of outstanding debts to suppliers, and other commercial and operational barriers affecting gas availability to power plants.

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Chief Adebayo Adelabu tasked the committee members with going beyond routine oversight and providing proactive, data-driven recommendations, particularly on mechanisms to guarantee payment for gas supplies and ensure sustainability in the sector.

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The minister emphasized that the committee will be held accountable for measurable progress, with expectations for regular reporting, clear milestones, and timely escalation of issues requiring government intervention.

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Chief Adebayo Adelabu expressed confidence in the committee's ability to deliver, noting that its membership reflects a broad representation of stakeholders across the gas-to-power value chain.

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The committee comprises representatives from the Ministry of Power, Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO), Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), Association of Generation Companies, Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC), Nigerian Gas Association, and consumer advocacy groups.

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Earlier, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Power, Alhaji Mahmuda Mamman, represented by the Director of Distribution, stated that the inauguration aligns with the minister's directive to urgently tackle challenges affecting gas supply to the power sector.

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He identified infrastructure deficits, pipeline vandalism, liquidity constraints, and coordination gaps as major issues hindering electricity generation and impacting economic growth.