By Ayomide Otitoju
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited has extended its petrol discount programme until October 31, 2026, stressing that the initiative is intended to provide temporary relief to customers and does not amount to a restoration of fuel subsidy.
The company said the discount, initially introduced on October 1 to mark Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary, would continue across NNPC Retail stations nationwide amid rising global crude oil prices linked to the conflict in the Middle East.
In a statement, NNPC said the initiative was designed to ease the impact of higher petrol prices on households, businesses and the wider economy.
The company’s position followed a statement by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Taiwo Oyedele, on October 8, 2026.
NNPC said it recognised the effect of rising fuel prices on transportation costs, business operations and household expenses, adding that it remained committed to working with the Federal Government and other stakeholders to cushion the impact.
It, however, clarified that the discount applied only to NNPC Retail outlets and did not establish a uniform national pump price or change the market-based pricing framework for petroleum products.
The company described the initiative as a customer relief measure aimed at providing practical support during a period of uncertainty in the global energy market.
It urged Nigerians to disregard claims suggesting that the discount represented a return to fuel subsidy, reaffirming its commitment to reliable product supply and responsible customer service.
NNPC added that it would continue to communicate the scope and duration of its customer initiatives to enable consumers to make informed purchasing decisions while maintaining commercially responsible operations.
