NAIJA NEWS
The federal government has criticized the surge in cement prices and threatens to reopen borders if manufacturers don’t decrease prices.
The Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa, who dropped the warning on Tuesday, emphasized local sourcing for cement production and deemed the current pricing unreasonable.
He warned of potential cement importation if prices persist.
Dangiwa cited available local materials like limestone and gas, rejecting excuses of high costs.
He urged patriotism among manufacturers and highlights BUA Cement’s willingness to lower prices. Manufacturers blame high gas and equipment costs.
Dangiwa proposed a committee involving manufacturers, their association, and the government to address pricing issues.
The government aims to stabilize cement prices to sustain employment and discourage illegal exports.