Cement prices across Nigeria have climbed to between ₦11,800 and ₦12,000 per 50kg bag, affecting major brands such as Dangote Cement, BUA Cement, Lafarge Cement, and Mangal Cement. Market surveys conducted by Naija News show the increase is widespread, with traders in multiple locations confirming the absence of a uniform or stable pricing system. Builders and contractors report that the rising cost has disrupted construction projects, many of which are now delayed or suspended. The surge impacts not only large-scale developers but also individual homeowners and small contractors.
Industry insiders point to five key drivers behind the price hike. High energy costs, particularly for gas, diesel, and electricity, have raised production expenses. Transportation costs have climbed due to fuel prices and poor road networks. The naira's volatility affects import-dependent operations, as cement plants rely on foreign-sourced machinery and spare parts. Demand has grown alongside construction activity, while general inflation continues to push up labour and maintenance costs. A contractor in Lagos noted, "We're pricing ourselves out of the market."
Dangote Cement, BUA Cement, Lafarge Cement, and Mangal Cement are all selling at nearly the same elevated price point, suggesting coordinated market behaviour rather than individual cost pressures. When competitors move in lockstep without price competition, the construction sector and ordinary Nigerians pay the price. This consolidation of pricing power means fewer options for cost relief, even if production expenses don't justify uniform increases. Without transparent pricing mechanisms, the burden will keep shifting to end users.
