The Guardians Special Focus on Leading champions of local content driving Nigeria’s economic growth

RUSSELSMITH: A Local Content Champion, Delivering Value Through Reliability and Safety

RusselSmith is a leading integrated energy services provider with a focus on asset integrity management energy services
provider
with
a
focus on
asset
integrity management, operations and production, technology
solutions and engineering. The company’s services ensure that customers have
 access
to
a
wide
range
of
value-added solutions which are designed to Operate, Manage, Optimize, and Extend the useful productive life of their assets reliably and safely, through cutting-edge technologies. 

According to the Chief Executive Officer of the company, Kayode Adeleke, “By focusing on improving our capabilities, adopting new and more efficient technologies, and ensuring a great experience for our customers, we are able to add value consistently to our customers’ operations. At RusselSmith, we have a passion for building effective technical solutions to problems in our industry. We also have an unwavering
 commitment
to safety, world-class quality service delivery, innovation, and customer
 satisfaction and this is reflected in every aspect of our operations.”

He added that “As a leading oilfield services provider, RusselSmith has strengthened its presence over the years and evolved to offer services which cut across many areas of oilfield operations. Also, as an indigenous Nigerian company with a reputation for world-class quality service delivery and high safety standards, we are committed to building local capacity and promoting innovation as a means to meet the ever-evolving technical challenges of the oil & gas industry in safe and cost-effective ways.”

Concerning his insight into the impact of the Local Content policy and the attendant benefits of its implementation, the RusselSmith boss explained that “The Act has boosted the involvement of Nigerian companies like RusselSmith in the Oil and Gas Industry, enabling us to provide services in areas that were once dominated by international firms. It has also resulted in the creation of numerous job opportunities for Nigerians in the oil and gas sector. RusselSmith, in compliance with the Act, has continued to grow local capacity by constantly introducing relevant new technologies while employing and training more local personnel on how to use these technologies, thus contributing to local skill development through technology transfers.

While the Local Content Act has presented local players with massive opportunities for growth, there are still a few challenges that we must overcome, such as the cost of capacity building and the deficiency in infrastructure. Local companies have to make significant investments in building capacity to meet technical and financial requirements in order to compete effectively, and this can affect the extent of participation.”

Responding to what his company has benefited from the policy after more than a decade of its enactment, Adeleke noted that “it has had a positive and transformative impact on RusselSmith Group’s operations in several ways. Firstly in the area of Business Growth and Expansion: It has opened up opportunities for us to expand our business and service offerings within the Nigerian oil and gas industry. It has also enabled us to take on a more prominent role in providing specialized services that were traditionally dominated by multinationals, and we have proven that we are truly capable of delivering world-class services as a local company.

Secondly, there is an increase in Local Talent: RusselSmith has a long history of developing local talent. We were the first company in Nigeria to train indigenous Rope Access technicians to IRATA Level I, Level II, and Level III, and that is just one of our many firsts.

We actively engage in technology transfer initiatives to ensure that we develop skilled local talent for the various innovative solutions that we provide. A good example is our current push to build local talent for our recently introduced Additive Manufacturing solution for the Oil & Gas industry, which is another technology solution that we are pioneering in Nigeria. This proactive talent development approach has helped us improve our technical capabilities and enhance the quality of services that we provide, in addition to increasing the pool of skilled technical talent in our industry.”

He spoke further that he believed the Nigerian Local Content Act has made substantial progress in promoting backward integration and positioning Nigeria as a leading African economy. It has boosted indigenous participation, created jobs, facilitated technology transfer, and spurred infrastructure development. While some challenges may remain, as mentioned earlier, the Act has undeniably had a positive impact, especially on the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry. With continued commitment and the necessary adjustments, Nigeria can further strengthen its position, and RusselSmith remains dedicated to contributing its quota as a leading indigenous player in the Nigerian Oil & Gas Industry.

While commending the efforts of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) in training indigenous talent, and providing guidance and extensive resources to indigenous companies to enable them to grow and thrive, he noted that area odf general compliance is still a work in progress. In his words, “As there is definitely room for improvement when it comes to compliance. In order for Nigeria to truly reap the benefits of the Local Content Act, compliance levels must be high in all areas.”

Meanwhile, in order to address other obvious challenges that may hinder speedy economic development and wealth creation for the nation, he advised that “it is important to focus on some key issues, such as infrastructure development and policy stability. The availability of adequate infrastructure in areas such as transportation, power, and ports will boost economic growth. Policy stability will also benefit our economy by reducing uncertainty and creating a conducive environment for long-term investments by both local and foreign investors.

Another catalyst for development is the promotion of research and innovation locally. It is important to note here that the government, through an organization like the NCDMB, has made giant strides in supporting research and development locally through initiatives like the NCDMB’s Technology Incubation and Innovation Centre (TIIC), the annual Practical Nigerian Content Forum event which showcases the capabilities of indigenous players, the creation of funding programs for indigenous companies to access much-needed capital, and the establishment of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Parks Scheme (NOGaPS) which is designed to stimulate local manufacturing in the Nigerian Oil & Gas Industry.”

How advanced technology, commitment to environmental sustainability, unwavering focus on customer needs, stand Erasko lubricants out in the market

Eraskon Nigeria Limited , prided as “one stop shop for lubricants,” is a Nigerian integrated lubricants, chemicals, plastics and packaging company, and a subsidiary of Eraskorp Nigeria Limited, an energy and infrastructure conglomerate established in July, 2004. 

 The company primarily focuses on lubricants and chemicals, production of various sizes of Plastic/Steel containers for different uses, and corrugated cartons of various packaging dimensions and purposes. 

  While the company’s Integrated Manufacturing Complex (IMC) is located in the Central Niger Delta – Yenagoa, Bayelsa State Capital, its range of products include: Oil & Gas Drilling / Production Chemicals and Engine Oils in the SAE 20W-50 range, SAE 15W-40 range and SAE 40 range. 

  The company restructured and secured investment from the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) to support its ambition of becoming a petroleum lubricants manufacturer.

  Eraskon offers three core services: Lubricants-high quality lubricating oils and speciality products such as waxes; Chemicals-engine coolants, aerosols, production chemicals and bio-degradable products and Plastics and packaging-plastic containers for engine oils, homecare products, and packaging of finished lubricants.

 As its Mission, the company is committed  “To delivering top-quality industrial solutions while upholding safety and excellence. Its mission is to enhance operational efficiency for clients, contribute positively to the industries we serve, and drive sustainable growth in Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa, while its vision is to become a leading provider of innovative energy and industrial solutions in Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa, driving progress across multiple sectors. The company aspires to be a catalyst for economic growth, guided by excellence, integrity, and partnership.

The company’s core values are the bedrock of Eraskon Nigeria Limited. It embodies these principles in every facet of operations, fostering a culture of excellence, integrity, and collaboration In discovering the unique benefits of partnering with Eraskon Nigeria Limited, the company’s unwavering commitment to excellence ensures that clients receive the highest quality products that meet or exceed industry standards. Clients can count on Eraskon for consistent, top-notch solutions.

Custom Solutions: The company understands that every business is unique. That’s why we offer customized solutions to address your specific needs, providing tailored products and services that perfectly align with your goals.

Industry Expertise: With years of experience in the energy and industrial sectors, the company’s team brings extensive knowledge and expertise to the table. We understand the challenges you face and are here to support your success

Our Products include Erasko Gold; 
Erasko Power; 
Erasko Vanellus Oil; 
Erasko HD SAE 40
; Erasko DMO SAE 40
; Erasko Hydraulic; 
Gear & Differential Oils
; Transmission Fluids;
Coolants
; Specialized Four-Wheel Drive Products (4WD) Injector Cleaner.

Distinctive Features of Erasko Lubricant Products 

In the crowded marketplace of lubricants, Erasko brand has consistently stood out, establishing itself as a benchmark for quality and innovation. Some unique aspects that set Erasko range of lubricant products apart from various competitors are: Advanced Formulation Technology; Environmentally Friendly; Extended; Performance Life; Versatility; Superior Protection:; Cost-Effectiveness; Transparent Communication; Responsive Customer Support; Consistent Quality Assurance. 

Finally, what truly makes Erasko lubricants stand out in the market is a combination of advanced technology, commitment to environmental sustainability, and an unwavering focus on customer needs. As the industry evolves, the company remains dedicated to pioneering advancements and setting new benchmarks inlubricant excellence. 

The company’s Head Office is situated at EL-AL Court, Plot 35, Chief Yesufu Abiodun Oniru Road, VI, Lagos State, while ts Operational Base is by Shell Gas Central Processing Facility, Gbaran-Yenogoa, Bayelsa State.

HYDE ENERGY LIMITED: Home Of High Quality, Trusted Lubricants In Nigeria

One company in the Nigerian Oil and Gas sector that has distinguished itself not only in the supply of petroleum products but also in the production and marketing of quality and trusted lubricants in the country is Hyde Energy Limited. Established in 2012, Hyde Energy is a reliable, global energy trading company with a downstream network. The company’s expertise in delivering high quality petroleum products and services is unrivalled. 

Hyde Energy has remained true to its vision and mission “To become the integrated energy company of choice in our chosen markets where we leverage our expertise to deliver energy safely and efficiently to consumers.” 

Based on this vision, the company has put in  place policies that ensure consistent production and marketing of high quality and trusted lubricants which include: Hyde fully synthetic engine oil (Luminor ZS9 5W-30SN & Luminor ZS9 5W-40SN); Hyde mineral oil-based multi-grade engine oil (Luminor ZM5 20W-50SL); Hyde mid-range mineral oil-based gasoline engine oil (Luminor ZM3 SAE 40); Hyde diesel engine oil (Maximus 15W40 C1-4, CH-4, CF-4 and CF); Wide range of industrial lubricants (Hyde Hydraulic Dynamus 68 and other ISO VG grades; Kempos Compressor oil, Transformer oil, Multi-purpose Lithium Grease EP 2 & EP 3), Transmission Fluid (ATF DEX III, Kivota Lube series).

Indeed, these high quality lubricants have become the delight of customers and users of these products because of their unique benefits which include better high and low temperature viscosity performance; improved high viscosity index; resistance to oxidation and oil sludge; decreased evaporative loss; better lubrication during extreme cold weather start; longer life span of engines; increased engine efficiency; improve fuel economy; better chemical and shear stability; lubrication of industrial equipment; amongst others. 

To consolidate its position as one of the leading companies in the Nigerian Energy Sector, the company has strategically established retail stations, owns and operates a petroleum products storage tank farm in Calabar, Cross River State, manufactures a comprehensive range of high-performing Hyde Energy branded lubricants (Luminor and Maximus), and developed an end-to-end domestic LPG distribution network. 

Furthermore, it is worthy to note that the distinctiveness of Hyde Energy is predicated on a strong track record of delivery on oil supply contracts, extensive knowledge of local and regional market dynamics, its fast-growing deployment of a robust retail LPG distribution system across Nigeria and operation of a 30,000 liters per day lubricants blending plant. Indeed, the company manufactures and distributes over 30 different grades of lubricants for automotive, industrial, marine, mechanical machines and equipment. 

Over the years, Hyde Energy has earned a reputation for consistently delivering high-quality petroleum products and services and is recognized as a trusted brand in the energy sector, offering innovative solutions to customers across industries. 

According to Ayobami Isaac Olowolayemo, Hyde Energy’s Head, Lubricants “We want to assure our customers and all users of Hyde Energy lubricants that our products are manufactured under a strict quality-controlled environment, using best-in-class raw and packaging materials with firm adherence to international best practices, SON and NMDPRA standards and performance specifications from the American Petroleum Institute (API) and other leading bodies. 

Also, we have trade initiatives that prevent adulteration ranging from close monitoring to ensure all products in the retail end are supplied by Hyde Energy distribution networks and supporting our distributors’ end-to-end. Emphatically, we do not compromise quality across our value chain. All raw materials used in our production meet specifications set by Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON) and other accredited agencies. In addition, all additives used in the production process have approval from OEMs to ensure the highest possible engine performance. Indeed, our commitment to quality and excellence permeates everything we do.”

To meet and surpass users and stakeholder expectation, the Board of Directors of Hyde Energy has put in place dedicated professionals with extensive experience across all facets of the global energy and commodities business. The management team of this fast-growing Oil and Gas Company is led by a dynamic energy business expert and technocrat, Mr. Dimeji Edwards. 

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