Explained: Why Cement Prices Are Surging Across Nigeria

Dealers across Nigeria have attributed the latest surge in cement prices to rising logistics and distribution costs, even as builders and consumers lament the strain on construction projects.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

An Abuja-based dealer told Daily Trust that buyers purchasing an entire truckload of Dangote Cement can still get it at about ₦10,500 per bag. However, he noted that such bulk discounts remain out of reach for many small-scale builders. He explained that transportation, loading charges, and distributor margins further widen the gap between ex-factory prices and what end-users actually pay.

In Lagos, the sharp price jump has sparked frustration among contractors, block makers, and homeowners. Reports indicate that the cost of a 50kg bag of cement rose from around ₦9,000 in December 2025 to ₦10,000 in January 2026, and has now reached as high as ₦11,500 in some areas.

A visit to cement markets in the state revealed that retailers blame middlemen and dealers for arbitrary markups. Ikechukwu Anthony, a seller in Ojo, said, “We buy cement from middlemen and dealers, not directly from manufacturers. The dealers and middlemen buy at reasonable prices but inflate them before selling. They claim it’s due to transport and other costs, but that’s not entirely true.”

Similarly, Ibrahim Ojo, a dealer in Mowo, Badagry, blamed the persistent price hikes on intermediaries. Dealers, however, have remained silent, fueling speculation among retailers and consumers.

Kano Market Insights
In Kano, the benchmark price has effectively settled at ₦10,500 and above. Alhaji Nasiru Awwalu Mustapha, a BUA Cement dealer in Maidile Quarters, Kumbotso LGA, said manufacturers are now supplying cement to dealers at higher rates. “BUA is selling to us at ₦10,500, Dangote at ₦10,450, and Mangal at ₦10,550 per bag. After adding transport and other expenses, retail prices reach ₦10,800–₦11,000,” he explained.

Mustapha noted that frequent price adjustments are affecting demand, saying, “Customers complain daily; some have suspended their projects. Rapid increases reduce sales volume, and we are not happy either.” Another dealer, Sani Maigemu, confirmed that cement companies cite taxes and other statutory obligations as reasons for the new pricing structure, contributing to market uncertainty.

Impact on Block Makers
Block makers in Kano have adjusted their prices accordingly. Aminu Inuwa said cement now costs between ₦10,800 and ₦10,900 per bag depending on the brand. “Mangal is around ₦10,900, while BUA and Dangote are about ₦10,800. As a result, the price of a nine-inch special block has increased from ₦750 to ₦800,” he stated, warning that further rises are likely if cement prices continue to climb.

In Kaduna, BUA cement sells for ₦10,900, with Dangote and Mangal at approximately ₦10,800 per bag. Dealers in Jigawa confirmed prices have reached ₦11,000, while in Zaria, some outlets offer Sokoto Cement, BUA, and Dangote at about ₦10,200, providing slight relief compared to other cities.

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