The move comes as lubricant suppliers face intensifying competition in Nigeria’s mass-market segment, where affordability increasingly shapes purchasing decisions amid economic pressure. Industry participants have been adjusting product portfolios to address widening gaps between premium offerings and lower-priced alternatives.

AP Supermax is a monograde lubricant formulated for older vehicles, generators and small engines, according to company officials. It is designed for routine use and is positioned below Ardova’s premium multigrade and synthetic products, such as AP Visco and AP Super V, which remain recommended for newer engines. The product is packaged in 1- and 4-liter containers and is distributed through 11 warehouses and more than 700 retail outlets nationwide, with pricing supported by large-scale production, internal manufacturing and a streamlined supply chain.

Ardova executives said AP Supermax offers protection against high temperatures, corrosion resistance, mechanical stability and improved engine cleanliness despite its lower price point. Additional packaging sizes may be introduced as demand evolves, and the company said it will continue to work with distributors and retailers to maintain price stability and broad availability across its retail network.

Nigeria is the largest automotive engine oil market in Africa. In years past the market was hampered by large amounts of fraudulent, substandard and off-spec products, but progress has some thanks in part to government enforcement efforts including implementation of a system that licenses lubricant manufacturers and base oil purchasers.