LAGOS, Nigeria — Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, has called on cement manufacturers across Nigeria to reduce the price of cement, warning that rising costs are putting pressure on ongoing infrastructure projects and triggering demands for contract reviews from contractors.
Okay News reports that Umahi made the remarks during the unveiling of the new corporate identity of Lafarge, now rebranded as HBM under the HUAXIN Group, at the Lagos Continental Hotel on Saturday.
The minister disclosed that the Federal Government plans to begin discussions with cement manufacturers from July 1, stressing that producers, rather than government, should address the rising cost of cement. According to him, contractors handling federal projects have continued to push for contract variations due to increased material costs, but the government is not prepared to grant such requests.
“Manufacturers of cement must reduce their prices,” Umahi said, adding that the burden of escalating costs should not be transferred to infrastructure contracts already awarded by government.
He noted that President Bola Tinubu’s administration is executing large-scale infrastructure projects across the country, creating significant opportunities for manufacturers and investors. Umahi urged HBM and other cement producers to increase production capacity to meet the growing demand generated by ongoing road and construction projects.
The minister also praised the company’s rebranding and continued investment in Nigeria, assuring its management of government support and collaboration. He said the scale of infrastructure development under the current administration presents a market opportunity larger than many industry players currently anticipate.
Highlighting achievements under the Renewed Hope Agenda, Umahi pointed to the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway as a major example of the administration’s infrastructure drive. He stated that the project has attracted international attention due to its scale and engineering quality, adding that foreign stakeholders have expressed admiration for the work being carried out.
Umahi further expressed confidence in President Tinubu’s leadership, insisting that the administration remains focused on reversing Nigeria’s challenges and restoring national prosperity. He said the government’s vision for infrastructure and economic development is achievable and that the country is steadily moving towards long-term transformation.
