Nigeria’s Minister of Works, David Umahi, has raised concerns over the escalating prices of cement and other construction materials, warning that the trend could jeopardise the federal government’s ambitious housing and infrastructure projects.
During an inspection visit to the Abuja–Obajana Junction road in Kogi State, Umahi noted that despite signs of economic stability—particularly with reforms that have helped steady the naira and ease general inflationary pressures—the construction sector continues to grapple with rising costs.
“The dollar is being stabilised, but the price of cement has moved from ₦7,500 to ₦10,500; same with shipping, same with sand. Inflation is coming down even though construction materials are going up, and we don’t know why,” he said.
The minister stressed that the administration of President Bola Tinubu has prioritised roads and bridges as essential infrastructure for driving economic growth. He highlighted the importance of the construction sector to Nigeria’s gross domestic product (GDP), pointing out its linkages with various other industries.
Describing the persistent increase in material prices as a paradox, Umahi compared it to anomalies in physics, where outcomes defy logical expectations.
Despite the challenges, Umahi expressed optimism, noting that government policies are beginning to yield results in other sectors. “We are doing the best we can under the circumstances. And we are happy that food prices are coming down,” he added.
