A Civil Society Organisation, the Coalition for Good Governance, has described the petrol discount offered by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited as a welcome intervention to ease the financial burden on Nigerians.
The coalition said the temporary price reduction at NNPC retail outlets nationwide would provide relief to motorists and businesses grappling with rising transportation and operating costs.
In a statement signed by its representative, Danjuma Bello, on Wednesday, the group said the initiative, introduced on October 1 to commemorate Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary, had been extended until October 31, 2026.
It attributed the rising cost of petrol to higher international crude oil prices, which it said had increased the financial pressure on households and businesses.
“The NNPCL’s decision to forgo part of its retail margin and pass the benefit directly to consumers is quite helpful and beneficial to citizens across the country,” the statement said.
“At a time when many households are struggling with the cost of commuting and business operations, this temporary relief measure offers a practical cushion that ordinary Nigerians can feel immediately.
“We commend the company for prioritising public transport operators and for ensuring that the discount remains a commercial decision funded from its own margin rather than public resources.
“This approach preserves the integrity of market-based pricing while still delivering support where it is most needed.”
The coalition said restricting the discount to NNPC retail outlets and requiring customers to use the NNPC Fuel App would help prevent abuse and ensure that the benefit reached eligible motorists.
It urged motorists to take advantage of the promotion before its scheduled expiration by downloading the application and purchasing petrol at authorised stations.
Bello’s group also noted that the initiative came amid elevated international crude oil prices linked to geopolitical tensions, describing the company’s decision to absorb part of the cost as a demonstration of corporate responsibility.
The coalition expressed hope that other private-sector operators would introduce similar measures to cushion the effects of rising living costs.
“This is not a return of subsidy; it is a responsible corporate response that puts the welfare of citizens first,” the statement added.
“Nigerians who fuel at NNPCL stations and pay through the app are already enjoying lower effective prices, and that is a positive development worth acknowledging.
“We call on other industry players to emulate this spirit of shared responsibility. When companies choose to reduce their margins in the interest of the public, the entire economy benefits through reduced transport fares and lower overall cost of living.”
The coalition reaffirmed its support for transparent, market-driven energy policies, while urging the Federal Government and NNPCL to monitor the impact of the discount and consider further measures to support citizens until international oil prices moderate.