Nigerians are facing fresh hardship as the price of cement has gone up sharply across the country.
In January 2026, a 50kg bag of cement now sells for about ₦10,500, up from ₦9,800 in December 2025. This means buyers are paying almost ₦1,000 more per bag. The new prices are already in effect in places like Abuja, Nasarawa, Niger State, and other areas.
This increase is causing concern because Nigeria has enough raw materials for cement production in places like Kogi, Edo, and other states. Also, cement producers had earlier promised Nigerians that prices would not go beyond ₦7,000 per bag.
With cement becoming more expensive, house rent is also going up. Reports show that rent for a self-contained apartment has increased by over 100%, from about ₦400,000 to ₦800,000 per year, especially in cities like Abuja and Lagos.
Sadly, many Nigerians say the government has not done enough to control the rising cost of living. Inflation also rose to 15.15% in December 2025, making things harder for families.
Former President of the Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria (REDAN), Alhaji Aliyu Oroji Wamakko, has warned that the cement price hike could hurt housing development, jobs, and businesses.
He said higher building costs will lead to higher rent and may force many construction-related businesses to shut down, causing job losses. He also questioned why cement prices are rising again, despite earlier promises by major producers like Dangote and BUA to reduce prices.
High demand due to road construction projects
Use of cement instead of other materials
Weak naira and reliance on imported chemicals and equipment
He called on the government and the Price Control Board to step in and review the cement pricing system to protect Nigerians.
If nothing is done, cement prices may rise even higher and Nigerians will continue to pay the price.
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