Cement prices surge to N15,000 per bag across Nigeria
Cement prices in Nigeria have continued their upward climb in July 2026, adding fresh pressure on builders, contractors, and millions of Nigerians planning construction projects. A market survey conducted by Legit.ng shows that the retail price of a 50kg bag of cement now ranges between N12,500 and N15,000, depending on the brand, location, and distribution costs.
In some parts of Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, and the South-East, prices have reportedly crossed the N15,000 mark, particularly for retail purchases in smaller quantities. The latest increase comes at a time when Nigeria’s cement industry is undergoing a major transformation following Huaxin Cement’s acquisition of Lafarge Africa.
Current cement prices by brand
Dealers across major cities report that cement prices have become highly volatile, with costs differing from one region to another due to transportation expenses and supply conditions. Dangote Cement now sells for N13,000 to N15,000 per 50kg bag, BUA Cement ranges from N12,000 to N14,500, and Lafarge Africa (now HBM Nigeria Plc) is priced between N12,000 and N13,500.
Industry analysts attribute the persistent rise in cement prices to several factors, including the high cost of diesel, rising transportation expenses, foreign exchange volatility, and increased production costs. Although Nigeria has sufficient local cement production capacity, the cost of moving cement from factories to distributors and retail outlets has continued to push prices higher.
Huaxin Cement completes Lafarge Africa acquisition
A major development in the industry is the completion of Huaxin Cement’s acquisition of Lafarge Africa, according to a report by TheCable. The Chinese cement giant acquired 83.81% of Lafarge Africa from Holcim in a deal valued at approximately US$1 billion. Following the takeover, Lafarge Africa has begun transitioning to HBM Nigeria Plc, marking a new chapter for one of Nigeria’s largest cement producers.
Huaxin’s entry into the Nigerian market is significant because it strengthens competition in an industry long dominated by Dangote Cement and BUA Cement. Experts believe Huaxin’s acquisition could eventually lead to improved efficiency, plant modernisation, and increased production capacity at Lafarge’s Nigerian operations.
Competition may lower prices but not immediately
With Huaxin now controlling a major share of Lafarge Africa, the company is expected to challenge the market dominance of Dangote and BUA more aggressively. This could create a more competitive pricing environment in the long term, potentially benefiting consumers. However, analysts caution that Nigerians may not see immediate price reductions.
Cement prices are still heavily influenced by macroeconomic factors such as energy costs, inflation, and logistics challenges. For now, builders and homeowners remain caught between rising construction costs and hopes that stronger competition from Huaxin’s takeover of Lafarge Africa will eventually bring some relief to the Nigerian cement market.
Dangote Cement chairman explains high prices
Legit.ng earlier reported that the chairman of Dangote Cement Plc, Emmanuel Ikazoboh, has explained why cement prices remain high across Nigeria, attributing the persistent increases to rising energy costs and the impact of foreign exchange on production expenses. His comments come amid growing concerns from Nigerians over the soaring cost of building materials, with many calling on the government to intervene as cement prices continue to put pressure on construction projects and housing development.
Speaking during the 17th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of Dangote Cement Plc in Lagos, Ikazoboh said energy remains the biggest cost component in cement manufacturing, accounting for about 60 per cent of total production expenses.
