Millions of Nigerians were left without electricity on Friday, January 23, 2026, following the first total collapse of the national power grid this year.
Data from the Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) showed that electricity generation dropped sharply to zero megawatts (MW) at about 11:40 a.m., signalling a complete system failure.
The collapse led to a nationwide blackout, with all 11 electricity distribution companies (DisCos) losing supply. Major distribution networks, including Ikeja Electric, Eko Electricity Distribution Company and the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC), were all affected.
Further data from NISO indicated that load allocation to the DisCos remained at zero MW as of 1:00 p.m. on Friday, confirming the total shutdown of power supply across the country.
The incident mirrors a troubling trend seen in 2025, when the national grid suffered several collapses, the last of which was recorded on December 29.
The recurring system failures have raised fresh concerns about the stability of Nigeria’s electricity infrastructure, coming despite repeated upgrades and interventions aimed at boosting grid capacity and improving reliability.