The Nigerian government may permit cement imports if local manufacturers don’t lower prices, citing availability of raw materials locally and deeming price surges unjustified.
If Nigerian cement manufacturers do not cooperate in reducing cement prices in the country, the federal government has hinted at the potential decision to allow the importation of cement by opening the borders.
It also acknowledged the macroeconomic difficulties confronting the nation and emphasized that crucial elements in manufacturing building materials, particularly cement, are obtained locally. It deems the repetitive and disproportionate surge in cement prices as unjustifiable and irrational.
The Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc Ahmed Dangiwa, emphasized that essential raw materials like limestone, clay, silica sand, and gypsum for cement production are locally available and should not be priced in foreign currency.