By BANNERNEWS Reporter
Cement availability in the Nigerian market is expected to improve significantly following the expansion of Lafarge Africa Plc’s Sagamu Cement Plant in Ogun State and Ashaka Cement Plant in Gombe State.
The company said the projects would raise its combined cement production capacity to 5.5 million metric tonnes per annum, a development that could also ease price pressures in the market.
Company Secretary, Adewunmi Alode, disclosed that the Ashaka plant expansion would deliver an additional 2 million metric tonnes per annum, while the Sagamu plant would add 3.5 million metric tonnes annually upon completion.
She explained that both facilities are being upgraded as modern dry-process plants equipped with preheater kilns, vertical raw mills and roller presses for cement mills to enhance energy efficiency and operational performance.
Lafarge Africa reaffirmed that the expansion aligns with its strategy to strengthen local cement production and improve supply reliability across key markets in the country.
In a notice to the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) and the investing public, the company said the projects are expected to improve product availability and enhance its ability to serve customers more efficiently nationwide.
The expansion follows the 2024 acquisition of 83.81 per cent of Lafarge Africa Plc by Huaxin Building Materials Group, a move the company said underscores the new majority shareholder’s long-term commitment to Nigeria’s infrastructure development.
Commenting on the development, Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Lafarge Africa Plc, Lolu Alade-Akinyemi, said the projects reflect the company’s confidence in Nigeria’s growth prospects and its determination to support the country’s construction and infrastructure needs.
He added that beyond increasing capacity, the investments would deliver operational and sustainability benefits, create value for customers and shareholders, and stimulate economic activity and job creation within host communities and the wider construction ecosystem.
