The Nigerian Independent System Operator has announced a planned power outage affecting seven northern states as part of efforts to upgrade transmission infrastructure.

The outage will impact Plateau State, Gombe State, Bauchi State, Borno State, Adamawa State, Taraba State, and Yobe State, following maintenance work on the Jos–Gombe 330kV transmission line.

According to NISO, the disruption will run from April 9 to May 22, 2026, occurring weekly from Thursday to Sunday between 9:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.

The exercise is to allow for the installation of Optical Ground Wire fibre infrastructure along the transmission route, aimed at improving grid coordination, monitoring, and operational efficiency.

While alternative supply will be routed through available 132kV lines, the operator warned that electricity supply may be reduced due to limited capacity on those lines.

NISO said it is working with the Transmission Company of Nigeria and distribution companies to manage the impact and minimise disruptions across affected areas.

The agency added that the upgrade is expected to improve electricity reliability, enhance fault detection, and strengthen overall grid performance once completed.

Meanwhile, the Presidency has defended the Federal Government’s approval of a N3.3 trillion plan to settle outstanding debts owed to power generation companies, stating that the move is part of broader efforts to stabilise the sector and ensure sustainable operations.