In a bold move to tackle the soaring cost of construction materials in Nigeria, the Minister of Works, David Umahi, has appealed to cement manufacturers to reduce the price of cement from ₦9,500 to ₦7,000.
Umahi’s appeal, which was made public through Nigerian Stories on its official X handle, underscores the federal government’s growing concern over the skyrocketing prices of essential building materials. The minister stressed that affordable cement is crucial for infrastructure development, housing projects, and economic growth.
The steep rise in cement prices has been a major burden on developers, contractors, and ordinary Nigerians striving to build homes. Many stakeholders have blamed the surge on inflation, high production costs, and supply chain disruptions. However, Umahi insists that manufacturers must find ways to ease the financial strain on citizens by adjusting their pricing.
While it remains uncertain whether cement producers will heed the minister’s call, industry experts believe that government intervention and strategic policies are necessary to stabilize the sector.
Will this appeal translate into tangible relief for Nigerians, or will the cement industry push back against the proposal? Only time will tell.
PIONEER NEWS 