Lubricant supplier Oando Marketing Plc. expanded its blending plant in Lagos, Nigeria, solidifying its position as one of the countrys largest producers.
Oando Marketing Plc. invested in new production lines and upgraded our Lagos facility from an annual capacity of 9 million liters to 14 million liters, with all equipment optimized to improve efficiency. A new, fully automated filling line was also installed and commissioned in 2014, said Lilian Ikokwu, head of lubricants for Oando.
Ikokwu said the filling line was made by Adelphi Masterfil, a United Kingdom-based firm. Abayomi Awobokun, CEO of Oando downstream, added that Oando is the first Nigerian company to obtain the Standards Organization of Nigerias Integrated Management System certification, which requires approvals for both ISO 14001(a standard for environmental management system) and OHSAS 18001 (for occupational health and safety management).
Ikokwu said Oando followed its expansion with the launch of Oleum Syn, a fully synthetic brand targeted at advanced modern engines, including those featuring turbocharged engines.
Oleum Syn is blended from quality base oils and additives in line with international and industry standards, said Ikokwu. The market has been upbeat about Oleum Syn. It has been received with vigor as a product from Nigerias largest indigenous energy solution provider.
Emeka Obidike, executive secretary of the Lubricants Producers Association of Nigeria, lauded Oandos expansion, saying it would add to the capacity for locally blended lubes in Nigeria. It is a welcome development because the increase in capacity will also lead to employment generation, which will contribute to the Nigerian economy, said Obidike.
Oando Marketing manufactures automotive, industrial and marine lubricants, including greases. The Oleum range also includes automatic and manual transmission oils and brake fluids.