Association calls for lower cement prices in Nigeria

Oyebamiji Dauda, chairman of the Lagos State Bricklayers’ Association, has urged the federal government of Nigeria to address the rising cement prices and as a result, increase access to affordable housing. In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria, Mr Dauda stated that allowing more producers to operate in the market would make it more competitive.

"There is the need for establishment of more cement manufacturing firms to help crash the price. Our observation is that high cost of cement is as a result of few manufacturing plants," said Mr Dauda.

The chairman of the association noted that the current price of cement in the country lies between NGN2800-3000/bag (US$7.7-8.3/bag). However, the government could subsidise the product and stabilise the price at NGN1000/bag irrespective of the type or brand, according to Mr Dauda. He also called for a ban on the importation of building materials.