Oluwatoni Oladiran, CEO of Oilden Energies, has raised alarm over the use of palm oil as a base oil in lubricant production, emphasizing its damaging effects on engines. Speaking to journalists, Oladiran expressed grave concerns about the prevalence of adulterated engine oils in the market, revealing that some unscrupulous producers were substituting base oils with edible palm oil.
“Palm oil thickens under cold weather conditions, unlike base oil which maintains its consistency,” Oladiran explained, highlighting the unsuitability of palm oil for lubricants, especially in heavy-duty machinery. He cautioned against using palm oil-based lubricants in anything other than small generators, citing potential risks of engine damage.
Oladiran underscored the importance of imported base oil, a critical component in lubricant manufacturing, noting the challenges posed by foreign exchange fluctuations. He advocated for local refining of crude oil to reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imports and boost economic growth through job creation and export revenue.
Regarding product integrity, Oladiran clarified that genuine Oilden products are supplied directly to end-users, warning consumers to beware of counterfeit items in the market. He criticized the practice of using palm oil as an additive in lubricant production, attributing it to the rising cases of engine and transmission failures due to substandard products.
“Palm oil cannot replace the varied types of base oils needed for different lubricants, such as those for cars and industrial machines,” Oladiran stressed. He urged the adoption of appropriate base oils to ensure the reliability and longevity of machinery, cautioning against shortcuts that compromise performance and safety.
