The Federal Government has announced plans to begin formal discussions with cement manufacturers on July 1 to address concerns over the rising Nigeria cement price, which officials say is increasing pressure on infrastructure delivery and contract execution across the country. Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, disclosed this during the unveiling of Lafarge’s new corporate identity, now rebranded as HBM under the HUAXIN Group, in Lagos.
The Nigeria cement price has remained a key concern for government and industry stakeholders due to its direct impact on construction costs and public infrastructure projects. With ongoing nationwide road and housing developments, fluctuations in cement pricing have contributed to rising contractor demands for contract reviews.
The Federal Government has consistently emphasized the need to stabilise the construction value chain as part of its broader infrastructure development agenda under the Renewed Hope programme.
Umahi stated that the planned engagement will bring together major producers to address pricing concerns linked to the Nigeria cement price.
“I want to insist that Lafarge, now HBM, and other manufacturers of cement should reduce their prices. We shall be engaging on this from the first of July,” Umahi stated.
He explained that rising material costs are already affecting project execution and increasing pressure from contractors seeking adjustments.
“Manufacturers of cement must reduce their prices because the contractors are choking me to review their contracts. But nobody is reviewing anybody’s contract. It’s the manufacturers of cement that should review their costs,” he said.
Umahi noted that the government’s extensive infrastructure rollout has significantly increased demand for cement, urging producers to expand capacity to match national needs. He also highlighted ongoing projects such as the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway as part of the administration’s infrastructure drive, noting international recognition of project quality.
“When the Dutch Bank came to evaluate our project, they said it was undervalued and that the project is of topmost quality,” he said. The minister commended HBM for its rebranding while assuring the company of government partnership and support in the sector.
“The market is smaller than the president’s efforts. So, enlarge your coast,” he added.
The planned discussions on Nigeria cement price signal renewed government intervention in a critical construction input market. Any outcome from the talks could influence project costs, contractor agreements, and overall infrastructure delivery timelines. Stakeholders across the construction and manufacturing sectors are expected to closely monitor the engagement, as cement pricing remains central to national development projects and private sector investments.
The Federal Government is expected to hold talks with cement manufacturers on July 1 to address concerns surrounding Nigeria cement price. The outcome of the meeting may shape future pricing structures and impact ongoing infrastructure projects across the country.
