Top 5 Cement Producers In Nigeria And Their Current Prices

Nigeria, a nation characterized by an abundance of block houses rather than wooden structures, finds its architectural landscape shaped by weather conditions that favor the durability of cement over wood.

In this tropical climate, which experiences two distinct seasons—dry and rainy—investors in real estate lean heavily towards sturdy cement-based constructions, which prove to be more financially lucrative.

Cement holds a prominent position as a commodity in Nigeria’s real estate market, driving both demand and competition among producers.

Derived from materials such as limestone, clay, shells, and chalk, cement serves as a vital binder in Nigeria’s construction sector, utilized in the construction of buildings and roads alike.

Recent remarks from government officials, including Doris Uzoka-Anite, Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, and David Umahi, Minister of Works, highlight concerns over the escalating prices of cement nationwide.

Despite Nigeria being Africa’s most populous nation, relying heavily on locally sourced materials for cement production and exporting to neighboring countries, the unjustified surge in prices raises eyebrows within the industry.

Within Nigeria’s cement industry, fierce competition persists, although certain brands have earned reputations for their reliability and effectiveness in construction and plastering.

These companies have become household names, recognized both within the industry and by the general populace.

This report explores some of these prominent cement manufacturers, providing insights into their products and pricing based on market surveys.

1. Dangote Cement Plc

Dangote Cement Plc, a subsidiary of Dangote Industries Limited and spearheaded by Aliko Dangote, Africa’s wealthiest individual and a conglomerate with diverse business interests, holds the distinction of being Nigeria’s premier cement producer.

Established on November 4, 1992, Dangote Cement Plc boasts a widespread presence across more than ten African nations, solidifying its status as a leading player in the continent’s cement industry.

As Nigeria’s foremost manufacturer and distributor of cement, extensively utilized in building construction, Dangote Cement has become synonymous with quality and reliability, earning widespread recognition and trust among households nationwide.

Headquartered in Lagos, the economic hub of Nigeria, Dangote Cement commands a significant market share, with its flagship product, the 50kg bag of cement, retailing at N12,500, according to prevailing market rates.

However, calls from stakeholders, including the Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, advocate for a reduction in the price of Dangote’s cement to below N10,000, citing market dynamics and consumer affordability as primary concerns.

Given the dynamics of demand and supply within its market, the price of Dangote’s cement can vary depending on the seller, reflecting fluctuations in market conditions and distribution channels.

A comprehensive market survey conducted by Osun Defender underscores the widespread demand for Dangote’s cement brand, driven by its reputation for durability and rapid drying properties, particularly in construction projects.

The brand’s popularity is further bolstered by its consistent performance and reliability, making it a preferred choice among contractors, builders, and homeowners alike.

Beyond its domestic market dominance, Dangote Cement’s robust presence across various African countries underscores its regional influence and strategic expansion initiatives, positioning it as a key player in Africa’s burgeoning construction sector.

As a testament to its enduring appeal and market leadership, Dangote Cement continues to shape industry standards, drive innovation, and uphold its commitment to delivering quality products that meet the evolving needs of consumers and stakeholders alike.

2. Lafarge Africa Plc

Lafarge Africa, commonly known as ‘Elephant Cement’ due to its iconic logo featuring an elephant, ranks second only to Dangote as one of Nigeria’s leading cement manufacturers.

As a member of the Holcim Group, Lafarge Africa holds a prominent position in Nigeria’s construction landscape, recognized for its widespread usage in building projects across the country.

In addition to its flagship product, Elephant Cement, Lafarge offers a diverse range of cement variants tailored to specific construction needs and applications.

According to Omonike Faidija, a Quantity Surveyor, Lafarge cement is favored by many due to its exceptional durability, ensuring the longevity of structures even after the drying period, which typically lasts around 24 hours.

Despite occasional fluctuations in pricing within the industry and across different regions of Nigeria, a 50-kg bag of Elephant cement commands a market price ranging from N12,000 to N14,000.

These price disparities reflect the broader market dynamics and supply chain challenges that influence the cost of cement across various distribution channels.

Lafarge’s reputation for reliability and performance further solidifies its position as a preferred choice among builders, contractors, and homeowners seeking high-quality cement solutions for their construction projects.

Beyond its role as a key player in Nigeria’s cement industry, Lafarge Africa’s association with the Holcim Group underscores its commitment to global standards of excellence, innovation, and sustainability in cement production.

As Lafarge Africa continues to uphold its legacy of quality and innovation, it remains poised to meet the evolving needs of Nigeria’s construction sector while contributing to the country’s infrastructure development goals.

3. BUA Cement Plc

BUA Cement, a subsidiary of the BUA Group under the ownership of Abdulsamad Rabiu, stands out as a premier brand in Nigeria’s cement industry, renowned for its exceptional affordability.

Despite the prevailing trend of rising prices in the cement market, BUA Cement maintains its reputation as Nigeria’s most cost-effective option, appealing to consumers seeking value for money.

Currently, the market price for a 50kg bag of BUA Cement ranges between N10,000 and N11,000, with variations influenced by factors such as the seller’s pricing strategy and geographic location.

This competitive pricing strategy positions BUA Cement as a preferred choice for budget-conscious consumers, offering a balance between affordability and quality.

As Nigeria’s construction sector continues to evolve, BUA Cement remains committed to providing accessible and reliable cement solutions that meet the needs of both individual consumers and large-scale construction projects.

4. Ibeto Cement

Under the ownership of Cletus Madubugwu Ibeto, Ibeto Cement stands as a notable subsidiary within the Ibeto Group, contributing to the diversified portfolio of the conglomerate.

Established in 1970, Ibeto Cement initially gained recognition through its automotive business segment, which remains a significant component of the Ibeto Group’s operations to this day.

Despite its origins in the automotive industry, Ibeto Cement has emerged as a prominent player in Nigeria’s cement market, acclaimed for its competitive pricing and effectiveness in construction projects.

A 50kg bag of Ibeto Cement is currently priced between N10,000 and N11,000, making it an attractive option for consumers seeking affordability without compromising on quality.

This affordability factor, coupled with Ibeto Cement’s reputation for reliability and performance, solidifies its position as a preferred choice among builders, contractors, and homeowners alike.

As Ibeto Cement continues to serve as Nigeria’s go-to option for cement needs, it remains committed to delivering value-driven solutions that meet the demands of the country’s dynamic construction sector.

5. United Cement Company of Nigeria Limited (UniCem)

UniCem, short for United Cement Company of Nigeria, emerges as a prominent cement manufacturer operating in the eastern region of Nigeria, representing another brand under the Lafarge Group umbrella.

Renowned for its versatility, UniCem cement is considered suitable for various applications, catering to both general construction needs and structural projects alike.

Presently, the market price for a 50-kg bag of UniCem cement ranges from N12,000 to N14,000, with pricing variations influenced by geographic location and other market factors.

In a bid to address housing affordability concerns and narrow the socioeconomic gap, the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria has proposed a significant reduction in cement prices, aiming to facilitate homeownership for average Nigerians.

However, the realization of this initiative hinges upon the fulfillment of federal government interventions and regulatory measures.

As stakeholders work towards implementing strategies to make homeownership more accessible to the masses, UniCem cement remains a viable option for consumers seeking quality construction materials at competitive prices.

UniCem’s affiliation with the Lafarge Group underscores its commitment to upholding global standards of excellence and sustainability in cement production, while also contributing to Nigeria’s infrastructure development goals.

CULLED FROM BUSINESS DAY