The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC Ltd.) has said its ongoing petrol discount at retail stations is a customer relief initiative and not a return of fuel subsidy.
In a statement on Friday by its Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Andy Odeh, the company said the discount is aimed at cushioning the impact of elevated global crude oil prices triggered by the Middle East conflict.
The company said it recognises that higher petrol prices affect daily life, from commuting costs to business expenses.
“We understand the strain on families and livelihoods, and this discount is intended to provide direct relief to customers during this difficult period,” NNPC stated.
The clarification follows the announcement by Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Taiwo Oyedele, on October 8, 2026, on measures to cushion rising fuel prices.
NNPC said it had introduced a sales discount on October 1, 2026 to commemorate Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary and that the discount will continue until October 31, 2026 across NNPC Retail stations nationwide.
“This discount is a customer relief initiative and does not represent the reintroduction of petroleum subsidy,” the company said.
It explained that the initiative supports government’s approach to providing practical relief during heightened global market uncertainty, adding that it applies only to NNPC Retail outlets.
According to NNPC, the discount does not establish a uniform national pump price nor alter the market based pricing framework for petroleum products.
The company reaffirmed commitment to reliable product supply and collaboration with government and stakeholders to ease burden on households, businesses and the wider economy.
It urged the public to disregard any interpretation of the discount as subsidy restoration.
“We assure the public that our commitment to reliable supply and responsible customer service remains firm. Our priority is to provide practical support while maintaining commercially responsible operations,” NNPC said, adding that it will continue to provide clear information on scope and duration of its customer initiatives to enable informed purchasing decisions.
