Nigerian football fans have taken to social media to poke fun at the country’s ongoing electricity problems, joking that even if the Super Eagles make it to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, many people may not have power to watch the matches.

The national grid has been under strain in recent weeks, with electricity generation falling below 4,000 megawatts due to gas supply shortages affecting thermal power plants. The Nigerian Independent System Operator recorded just 3,940.53 megawatts at one point. The grid has collapsed multiple times this year, with at least four incidents reported so far.

Ikeja Electric, one of the country’s distribution companies, issued an apology, citing gas supply constraints and assuring customers that stakeholders are working to address the shortfall.

Fans took to X to express their frustrations with humor. One user suggested that Nigerians might have to follow World Cup matches on social media instead of TV because of the frequent blackouts. Others joked that even if Nigeria hosted the tournament, matches might start in the evening and only end “whenever NEPA brings light back.”

Some fans also recalled the selective power supply that often coincides with big football matches, while others doubted that Nigeria could ever be considered as a backup host nation due to persistent electricity issues.

Nigeria’s qualification for the 2026 tournament in Canada, Mexico, and the United States is still uncertain.

The Nigeria Football Federation filed a protest with FIFA after DR Congo defeated the Super Eagles on penalties in the CAF play-off final in November 2025, alleging that ineligible players were fielded. FIFA confirmed it is reviewing the case but has given no timeline for a decision.