Cement prices nationwide: Dealers release new rates as 50kg bag drops to ₦12,000

Cement prices in Nigeria remain elevated, with a 50kg bag selling for between ₦12,000 and ₦15,000 in many markets. Some major brands are now available at the lower end of that range, but prices are still much higher than they were at the end of 2025 and early 2026.

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) is investigating pricing manipulation in the cement sector. The commission spoke on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, after a three-month industry-wide investigation.

Brand-by-brand rates from September market report

Dealers are quoting ₦12,000 for a 50kg bag of Dangote Cement, BUA Cement, Mangal Cement and Lafarge/HBM Cement. Linma White Cement is selling for ₦14,000.

These figures come from a September 1 market report and can vary depending on location, transportation costs, dealer margins and supply conditions.

July data showed higher prices

July industry data painted a more expensive picture. CementNet reported retail prices of ₦12,000 to ₦15,000, with Dangote selling for about ₦13,000 to ₦15,000, BUA at ₦12,000 to ₦14,500, and HBM Nigeria, formerly Lafarge Africa, at ₦12,000 to ₦13,500.

The Guardian reported in July that a 50kg bag typically sold for ₦12,500 to ₦15,000 across major markets including Lagos, Abuja and Abia. The FCCPC also reported prices of ₦13,000 to ₦15,000 in some locations during the first half of 2026.

The current ₦12,000 to ₦14,000 quotations for several major brands suggest some market-level moderation, not a broad collapse in cement prices.

Energy, transport and location drive high costs

High energy and transportation costs continue to weigh heavily on the industry. Cement manufacturing uses significant amounts of energy, while moving cement from factories and depots to retail markets adds further costs.

Location is also important. Buyers in areas farther from production centres can pay substantially more because of haulage and distribution expenses.

Nigeria has substantial cement production capacity, and domestic production exceeds consumption, with surplus output exported to neighbouring countries, according to The Guardian.

What it means for builders and consumers

For prospective homeowners, contractors and property developers, cement remains one of the biggest construction-cost pressures. At ₦12,000 per bag, 100 bags cost about ₦1.2 million. At ₦15,000, the same quantity costs ₦1.5 million, before transportation and other construction expenses.

Cement prices remain high and have risen considerably over the course of 2026, despite some recent moderation in selected markets. Builders should compare prices across authorised dealers and locations before making large purchases, as significant differences can exist between depot, wholesale and retail prices.