The National Petroleum Authority (NPA) has announced the cessation of discounted pricing practices by oil marketing companies (OMCs) and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) marketers nationwide, a move set to take effect from March 16, 2026.
In a directive communicated to industry players under the revised petroleum pricing framework, the regulator said all fuel and LPG outlets must now apply uniform pricing meaning the price displayed at the pump must exactly match what has been submitted to the NPA. Selective discounting at specific stations or outlets will no longer be permitted.
“Companies must ensure that the price at the pump aligns with the price declared to the Authority,” the NPA affirmed, warning that any deviation from this rule will attract sanctions.
Why the Change?
The revised pricing guidelines, which form part of the Authority’s broader efforts to strengthen regulatory oversight, are aimed at improving transparency, compliance, and fairness within the downstream petroleum sector.
Under the new rules:
* OMCs and LPG marketers must adhere strictly to the approved pricing formula when setting ex-pump prices.
* Prices must be submitted via the NPA’s platform before each bi-monthly pricing window from the 1st to 15th of the month, and the 16th to the end of the month.
* The regulator will publicly publish the ex-pump prices submitted by companies, a step intended to boost transparency.
The NPA also reiterated that it will intervene more actively in monitoring price compliance and product quality across retail stations.
Industry Reaction and Consumer Impact
Some industry sources have acknowledged that the removal of selective discounts might level the competitive playing field, preventing larger marketers from using targeted price cuts as a tool to draw customers and undercut rivals.
However, other observers argue that the change could result in higher pump prices for consumers, particularly where discounted pricing had previously delivered relief at select stations. The full impact on everyday motorists and LPG users is expected to become clearer in the coming weeks as the new rules come into force.
Stakeholder Engagement Ahead
Ahead of implementation, the NPA has scheduled a meeting with industry operators on March 11, 2026, to clarify stakeholders’ concerns and ensure a smooth transition to the new pricing regime.