By Etuka Sunday
Dangote Cement has assured that it will increase its production of cement significantly as a result of its enhanced capacity and ensure that the supply of cement will surpass its demand in the country.
The Group Managing Director and Chief Executive of the Dangote Cement Plc, Devakumar Edwin said the management has blends creativity with innovation, style, patience and commitment to high quality to the benefit of the consumers.
With its variants of 42.5 and recent introduction of 52.5 grades, as well as expansion projects that will bring capacity to 35 million metric tonnes (mmtpa) in the short term, Dangote Cement, according to him has underlined an unflinching determination to build a legacy that will last generations to come.
“We are here to make a difference and build a legacy in the industry. The fact that we are putting 9 million tonnes more in the market shows our determination. In future too, we are planning to launch cement plants. Before the end of the year, we will be putting in place a minimum of two cement plants, if not more. This will take us to 29 million mtpa. If I am going to put an additional 6 million, it takes me to 35 million tons,’’
Dangote Cement plc is a fully integrated cement company, with projects and operations in Nigeria and 14 other African countries. Its current total production capacity in Nigeria from its three existing cement plants is 20.25 million metric tons per annum (mmtpa). Its Obajana plant, established in 2006 and located in Kogi State, is reputed to be one of the single largest cement plants in the world with a combined capacity of 10.25 million mtpa.
Dangote remains the biggest player in the cement industry, controlling well over 70 percent of the market. Apart from the backward integration which generally helped push up the once captive sector, the major driving factor for Dangote Cement is innovation, which has reflected on its high-strength cement products and how it treats customers, who include retailers, wholesalers and construction companies, among others.
Edwin said: ‘’our focus is on 42.5 and 52.5 grades. We recently launched Dangote 3X, which has an extra strength. We have also launched 52.5 grade, which is sold to construction companies on demand,’’.
To further buttress its innovative mien, Dangote Cement now allows customers to buy products without being physically present at the factory or stores. All the customer has to do is pay, then call, give their address and the company will get the goods delivered at their doorsteps.
