HBM Nigeria Plc (formerly Lafarge Africa) says it will inaugurate its Ashaka and Sagamu cement plants in January 2027 as part of efforts to boost production capacity, create jobs and support Nigeria’s infrastructure development.

The Chief Executive Officer of HBM Nigeria Plc, Mr Lolu Alade-Akinyemi, disclosed this on Monday at the company’s news conference in Lagos while outlining the company’s transition from Lafarge Africa Plc to HBM Nigeria Plc.

Alade-Akinyemi said the expansion projects would add 4.5 million tonnes to the company’s production capacity.

He described the development as one of the key benefits of the company’s transition to HBM Nigeria Plc following its identification with Huaxin Group.

“We’re making significant progress by God’s grace. In January 2027, we would inaugurate both Ashaka and Shagamu plants.

“This expansion will add 4.5 million tonnes to our production capacity, improve product availability and strengthen our ability to serve customers across key markets,” he said.

Alade-Akinyemi  described  the projects as a remarkable achievement, noting that while cement plants typically take about three years to complete, HBM Group’s engineering expertise and in-house equipment manufacturing had significantly accelerated the process.

The CEO said the projects would create both direct and indirect employment opportunities, empower youths, promote diversity and inclusion, and create more opportunities for women in the industry.

According to him, the expansion will also stimulate the growth of local suppliers, contractors and small businesses, thereby contributing to Nigeria’s economic development.

Alade-Akinyemi said the additional capacity would enable the company to meet increasing demand arising from major infrastructure projects across the country.

He noted that this include road construction where concrete pavement is increasingly being adopted for its durability and sustainability.

He reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting the infrastructure development while maintaining high environmental standards.

According to him, HBM Nigeria remains committed to producing environmentally friendly cement with lower carbon emissions, alongside its aggregates, mortar and ready-mix concrete businesses.

He said the company’s new identity reflected a renewed focus on operational excellence, sustainability and innovation while assuring stakeholders that its core values and commitment to quality remained unchanged.

He added that HBM Nigeria would continue to create value for customers, host communities, employees and shareholders as it strengthens its position as a leading player in Nigeria’s building materials industry.