Dangote Cement exports growth reached 71.6 per cent in the first quarter of 2026, as the company’s production capacity expanded to 55 million tonnes per annum (Mta), strengthening its position as a leading supplier across African markets. The development reflects increased clinker shipments from Nigeria and sustained investment in production infrastructure.
Dangote Cement Plc remains Africa’s largest cement producer, with operations spanning multiple countries and a strong base in Nigeria. The company has continued to scale production capacity through new plants and expansion projects, positioning itself as a major exporter of cement and clinker to neighbouring markets.
Nigeria’s transition from a cement-importing country to a net exporter has been driven largely by investments from local manufacturers, with Dangote Cement playing a central role in that shift. The latest Dangote Cement exports growth reflects ongoing efforts to deepen regional trade and reduce dependence on imports across West and Central Africa.
Data from the company’s first-quarter performance shows that cement and clinker exports from Nigeria rose by 71.6 per cent to 549.6 kilotonnes. The company also completed multiple clinker shipments to regional markets, including Ghana and Cameroon, underscoring its growing export footprint.
Dangote Cement reported that the strong export performance contributed to overall revenue growth, which rose by 20.4 per cent year-on-year to approximately ₦1.19 trillion. Chief Executive Officer Arvind Pathak said the company delivered “an outstanding start to 2026,” driven by increased volumes and improved operational efficiency.
The Dangote Cement exports growth was also supported by cost optimisation strategies, including improved energy mix and logistics efficiency, which helped sustain profitability despite macroeconomic pressures. In terms of capacity, the company’s total installed production across Africa has now reached 55Mta, reflecting recent investments and expansion projects aimed at meeting rising demand.
The Dangote Cement exports growth signals a strengthening of Nigeria’s role in regional industrial supply chains, particularly in construction and infrastructure development. Higher export volumes are expected to support foreign exchange earnings and enhance the country’s trade balance within the African Continental Free Trade Area framework.
For the construction sector, increased supply capacity may help stabilise availability of cement products across markets, while also reinforcing the competitiveness of Nigerian manufacturers in regional trade.
