NNPC’s N66-per-litre petrol discount set to end October 31

By Diden Abigail Owuntarose

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) has scheduled the end of its ₦66-per-litre petrol discount programme for Saturday, October 31, 2026, raising concerns over a possible increase in fuel expenses for motorists and businesses from November.

The temporary price reduction, introduced on October 1 to commemorate Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary, was extended following the Federal Government’s intervention to cushion the impact of rising global crude oil prices on households and businesses.

In a statement issued on October 9, NNPC’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Andy Odeh, confirmed that the discount would remain available at NNPC Retail stations nationwide until October 31.

The company explained that the initiative was designed to provide temporary relief to Nigerians facing increased transportation and operating costs, while maintaining commercially responsible operations.

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NNPC, however, clarified that the discount did not represent a return to the petrol subsidy regime removed by the Federal Government in May 2023. It also stressed that the arrangement applied exclusively to its retail outlets and did not establish a uniform petrol price nationwide.

The discount was also linked to the company’s digital payment platform. Earlier findings by Saturday PUNCH showed that motorists purchasing petrol through the NNPC mobile application could access the reduced price, while customers paying directly at the pump did not automatically receive the benefit.

The scheduled expiration comes amid continued pressure from high fuel prices on transportation operators, traders, manufacturers and households that depend on petrol for mobility and electricity generation.

For small businesses, particularly those relying on petrol-powered generators, the end of the discount could further increase operating expenses if the temporary price relief is not extended.

As of October 31, NNPC had not announced a further extension of the programme.

Motorists and businesses will therefore be watching for any official announcement on the company’s pricing arrangements from November 1, as the expiration of the discount could mark the end of the temporary relief offered during October.