National Relief As Tinubu Directs Dangote, BUA, Others on Hiked Cement Price

President Bola Tinubu has directed cement companies in Nigeria to reverse the recent hike in the price of cement.

This development was disclosed by the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, during his visit to the BUA cement factory in Sokoto State.

The presidential order comes as a relief to many, mandating cement manufacturers to adhere to the older, more affordable pricing of cement.

This initiative is part of the administration’s broader strategy to facilitate a massive housing program and support the construction of concrete roads, as part of the president’s “renewed hope agenda.”

Senator Umahi’s visit, accompanied by Senator Aminu Tambuwal, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Housing, underscored the government’s commitment to infrastructure development, including a significant road project spanning 372 kilometers from Zaria to Sokoto State.

This project, which is to be constructed in phases using both asphalt and concrete, signifies a major investment in the nation’s infrastructure, totaling 744 kilometers of dual carriageway.

The minister praised the cleanliness of the BUA factory premises and highlighted the operational commencement of the company’s fifth production line, which promises to enhance cement availability and affordability. This visit coincided with a market survey revealing that the price of cement had reached between N8,500 to N9,200 nationwide, prompting public concern and government intervention.

In response to the manufacturers’ conditions for reducing cement prices to N7,000 and N8,000 at retail, the minister acknowledged the industry’s challenges, such as smuggling, poor road conditions, high energy costs, and the forex crisis. However, he emphasized the manufacturers’ willingness to collaborate on price reduction in the future.