The restriction has triggered concerns over the accessibility of the Federal Government-backed relief scheme, particularly for motorists without smartphones or those unfamiliar with mobile payment applications.
NNPCL announced the condition through its official X handle, directing motorists to download its fuel app and make payments through the platform to enjoy the discounted petrol price.
The Federal Government had announced a 30-day petrol price discount on October 8, 2026, as part of measures to cushion the impact of rising fuel costs on Nigerians, particularly commercial transport operators.
However, the restriction means motorists cannot access the discount through conventional payment methods, even at NNPCL retail outlets participating in the promotion.
NNPCL’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Andy Odeh, told Leadership that the N66-per-litre discount under the Independence Anniversary promotion was the same initiative as the 30-day petrol discount announced by the Federal Government.
Odeh explained that the promotion, initially scheduled to run from October 1 to 7, had been extended until October 31, 2026.
He said restricting access to the NNPC Fuel App was necessary to “ensure effective control, prevent abuse, and ensure the benefit reaches intended customers”.
According to him, the initiative would also encourage wider adoption of the application and improve customers’ experience.
Despite the company’s justification, the app-only arrangement raises questions about whether the relief programme can reach the wider motoring public, including low-income earners and commercial drivers who may lack access to smartphones or reliable digital payment services.
With petrol prices continuing to put pressure on household budgets and transport fares, the effectiveness of the discount will ultimately depend on how easily eligible motorists can access the relief before the October 31 deadline.
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