Muazzam Mairawani, a prominent entrepreneur from Kano, is poised to shake up Nigeria’s cement industry with his latest investment through MSM Group of Companies.
Mairawani has committed to building a $600 million cement factory in Kebbi State following a formal partnership with the Kebbi State government. This move signals a significant step in addressing Nigeria’s demand for cement and potentially altering the competitive landscape.
New Cement Plant Set to Transform the Industry
MSM Group has revealed plans for a modern cement facility equipped to produce up to 12 million tonnes annually. With an ambitious scope, the project is projected to create approximately 45,000 direct and indirect jobs — a boost for employment in the North West and across Nigeria.
Reacting at the official signing, Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris said the initiative demonstrates the state’s commitment to supporting major investments and fostering a business-friendly environment for local and foreign investors.
“This is a major breakthrough for economic development and a lifeline for thousands of unemployed youth and women in the state.”
He further assured that the government would work closely with MSM Group to ensure the project’s success, according to DailyTrust reports.
According to Mairawani, chairman of MSM Group, the new plant will leverage advanced technology to maximize output and solidify Nigeria’s role as an industrial leader in West Africa. He stressed the importance of adopting modern production techniques to improve efficiency and product quality.
“Today, we are not just signing a document; we are laying the foundation for an industrial revolution in Kebbi.”
Photo: Bloomberg/contributor
Source: Getty Images
MSM Group: Key Player in Nigerian Industry
Established in 2011, MSM Group operates across multiple sectors, including oil and gas, agriculture, logistics, shipping, fintech, and automotive services. The group holds control over oil block OML 98, known to contain 244 million barrels in reserves, and is currently preparing for a $225 million initial public offering in the United States.
By venturing into cement, MSM Group is aiming for aggressive competition, leveraging price strategies to attract buyers in a market long dominated by a handful of big players.
Currently, Dangote Cement leads the Nigerian market, producing 52 million metric tonnes across Africa and 35.25 million tonnes locally (source).
BUA Cement follows with 20 million tonnes, Lafarge with 10 million tonnes, and Ibeto stands at 5 million tonnes. With MSM now entering the space, analysts believe increased rivalry could translate to greater consumer choice and possibly lower prices.
Despite being in his 30s, Mairawani is an influential voice in business circles and is recognized as a member of the Kano Chamber of Commerce. Industry observers have compared his rising profile to that of Aliko Dangote and Abdul Samad Rabiu, two renowned Kano-born billionaires known for their contributions to the cement sector.
Usman Hassan Darma, the current president of the Kano Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines and Agriculture, expressed optimism about the broader economic impact of the new cement factory.
“It is a source of pride to see another son of Kano take bold steps into the cement industry,” said “We believe he will succeed just as Dangote and BUA did.”
Cement Prices and What It Means for Nigerians
Recent market analysis reports that the cost of a 50kg bag of cement climbed to N10,500 in Nigeria, marking an 8.25% increase from previous months. According to Financial Derivatives Company Limited (FDC), this is the sharpest price jump recorded in 2025 so far and is primarily linked to higher transportation costs and supply chain disruptions.
With MSM Group’s anticipated entry into the market, many Nigerians hope that increased competition will provide relief from runaway prices and improve access to cement for both builders and home owners.
What do you think about the entry of a new player in Nigeria’s cement industry? Do you expect improved prices or better quality?
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