Dangote Cement Plc has started 2026 on a strong note, recording significant growth in production, sales, and exports across its operations in Africa.
According to the company’s unaudited financial results for the first quarter of 2026, exports of cement and clinker from Nigeria rose sharply by 71.6 percent. This increase highlights the company’s growing influence in regional markets and its position as a leading exporter on the continent.
During the three-month period, Dangote Cement completed 10 shipments of clinker from Nigeria to neighbouring countries. This move further strengthened its role in supplying building materials across Africa, where demand for infrastructure and construction continues to rise.
The company also reported an increase in total sales volumes, which grew by 13.8 percent compared to the same period in 2025. Growth was recorded both locally and internationally, with Nigerian operations rising by 11.5 percent and its other African businesses expanding by 19.5 percent.
Speaking on the performance, the Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Arvind Pathak, said the results show the strength of the company’s business strategy and efficient operations across different markets.
He explained that the company’s revenue grew by 20.4 percent to N1.198 trillion, driven mainly by increased sales volumes. Profitability also improved, with earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortisation (EBITDA) rising by 22.8 percent to N567.1 billion. This, he said, reflects effective cost management and the company’s ability to turn growth into higher profits.
Dangote Cement also recorded a profit before tax of N421.1 billion for the quarter, representing a 35 percent increase compared to N311.9 billion in the same period last year. In addition, earnings per share rose significantly to N19.14, up from N12.29, showing improved returns for shareholders.
Pathak noted that export operations are becoming a major driver of growth for the company. The strong increase in export volumes and successful clinker shipments demonstrate the company’s expanding reach beyond Nigeria.
He also highlighted ongoing expansion projects aimed at increasing production capacity. Recently, the company commissioned a new 3 million tonnes per annum grinding plant in Côte d’Ivoire, marking another step in its regional growth strategy.
In addition, projects in Itori, Nigeria, and Ethiopia are progressing steadily. These developments are part of a broader plan to increase Dangote Cement’s total production capacity across Africa.
Currently, the company’s installed production capacity stands at 55 million tonnes per annum. With ongoing investments and expansion projects, Dangote Cement aims to reach 80 million tonnes per annum by 2030.
