Nigerians may be facing another wave of economic pressure as cement prices from major manufacturers, including Dangote and Mangal, surge nationwide.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Reports indicate that a 50-kilogram bag of cement has jumped to ₦10,500 in January 2026, up from about ₦9,800 in December 2025—a ₦700 increase, representing a 7.1% rise in just one month. Prices vary across regions, with adjustments already seen in Abuja, Nasarawa, Niger, and other states, depending on transportation and location.

The increase has baffled many, especially since Nigeria is rich in limestone and other raw materials used in cement production, notably in Obajana (Kogi State) and Okpella (Edo State). The hike also contradicts earlier assurances from manufacturers that cement would not exceed ₦7,000 per bag.

Industry experts warn the price surge could worsen Nigeria’s housing crisis. Research shows that minimum annual rents for self-contained apartments in urban centers like Abuja and Lagos have doubled to around ₦800,000, up from about ₦400,000.

Former President of the Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria (REDAN), Alhaji Aliyu Oroji Wamakko, expressed concern, stating the increase threatens property development, employment, and the construction sector.

“The rise in cement prices will inevitably increase the cost of housing and rents,” Wamakko told journalists. “It could also force some businesses in the construction value chain to shut down because they can no longer sustain operations.”

Wamakko recalled that last year, manufacturers such as Dangote and BUA were summoned by the Presidency after prices reached ₦10,000 per bag. At the time, they promised to reduce prices to around ₦7,000. However, reasons for the current hike remain unclear, and the government has remained silent.

He also criticized the apparent inactivity of the Price Control Board, responsible for monitoring and regulating essential building materials.

Wamakko attributed the price increase to rising demand from massive road construction projects, foreign exchange volatility, and Nigeria’s reliance on imported equipment and chemicals for cement production.

“Because of road construction, cement is being used more than other materials, creating higher demand. Also, currency fluctuations and imported production materials are pushing costs up,” he explained.

He called for a comprehensive review of the cement production and pricing system to identify root causes and implement lasting solutions.

“Authorities must thoroughly examine the system to find the problem and fix it,” Wamakko concluded.