By Arinze Uzo
Business News Correspondent
In a move aimed at supporting national development and stabilizing infrastructure costs, Nigeria’s leading cement manufacturers, Dangote Cement and BUA Cement, have pledged to freeze the price of cement specifically for federal government (FG) construction projects.
This development was disclosed after a series of high-level engagements between the cement producers and officials from the Federal Ministry of Works. The decision comes at a time when inflationary pressures have significantly affected the cost of building materials, posing a challenge to the execution of major public infrastructure projects.
According to sources within the ministry, the agreement is part of a broader strategy to ensure the timely and cost-effective delivery of road, bridge, and housing projects being undertaken by the federal government across the country. “We commend Dangote and BUA for their patriotic commitment to national development. By agreeing to hold cement prices steady, they are helping the government manage costs and deliver on its promises to the Nigerian people,” a senior ministry official said.
Both companies expressed willingness to cooperate with the government’s infrastructure agenda, citing the need for the private sector to play an active role in supporting national priorities. Representatives from Dangote Cement noted that the company remains committed to boosting local capacity and easing the burden on public spending through strategic pricing.
Similarly, BUA Cement reaffirmed its dedication to sustainable development, stating that the move reflects the company’s long-term vision of partnering with the government to improve critical infrastructure without compromising quality or affordability.
Industry analysts have welcomed the development, describing it as a timely intervention that could help moderate the overall cost of construction and reduce pressure on government budgets. They also highlighted the potential for similar public-private collaborations in other sectors to ease inflation and enhance economic stability.
The Federal Ministry of Works is expected to monitor the implementation of the price freeze to ensure compliance and transparency throughout the supply chain. The ministry also plans to engage other building materials suppliers in similar dialogues to expand the scope of cost containment across all federal projects.
This landmark gesture by Dangote and BUA sends a strong message about corporate responsibility and the importance of public-private partnerships in driving sustainable development in Nigeria.
