The construction and real estate sector is booming in Nigeria, with significant challenges facing the pricing of construction materials. Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa, recently expressed concerns over the alarming increase in the price of cement and other construction materials across the country.
During a meeting with manufacturers of cement and construction materials, the minister stressed that this situation constituted a real crisis for the housing sector. This surge in prices directly impacts the cost of building homes, thus making access to housing more difficult for many citizens.
The government has encouraged domestic cement production by stopping imports, with the aim of promoting more affordable prices for consumers. However, the minister warned that if the situation persists, the government may be forced to once again allow massive imports of cement, which would cause prices to fall but jeopardize the business of local manufacturers.
Cement manufacturers justified the price increase by high costs of gas and production equipment, but the minister considered these reasons insufficient to justify such pricing levels. He also criticized the attitude of the Cement Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (CEMAN) which claims not to intervene in price fixing, stressing that the association should play a more active role in regulating the market.
To address these challenges, the minister decided to set up a committee to review the situation and propose concrete measures in the interest of Nigerians. This approach aims to stabilize the cement market and guarantee equitable access to essential construction materials for all citizens.
Ultimately, this meeting between the government and cement manufacturers highlights the crucial issues facing the construction sector in Nigeria, highlighting the need for consultation and concrete measures to ensure sustainable and accessible urban development. all.