HBM Nigeria Emerges From Lafarge Rebrand

HBM Nigeria has officially become the new name of Lafarge Africa following its acquisition by Chinese investors and approval from shareholders.

HBM Nigeria has formally adopted a new corporate identity after operating as Lafarge Africa, marking a significant step in the company’s long-term strategy. The cement producer confirmed the change in a regulatory filing released on Tuesday, stating that the move reflects its future ambitions and commitment to serving stakeholders more effectively.

According to the company, shareholders gave full approval for the rebranding during the Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on 30 April 2026. The firm also announced that the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) has issued an updated Certificate of Incorporation confirming the new name.

The transition follows a major ownership change. In December 2024, Holcim Group revealed that it had signed a share purchase agreement with Huaxin Cement, a Chinese cement manufacturer based in Wuhan, to acquire an 83.1 per cent stake in the company. Before the transaction, Holcim controlled Lafarge Africa through Caricement BV and Associated International Cement Limited.

Several regulatory challenges delayed the completion of the deal. These included a Senate directive in March last year instructing the Bureau of Public Procurement to suspend the transaction. As a result, the acquisition closed nine months after it was first announced.

At the time, Senator Shuaib Salisu, representing Ogun Central, warned about growing foreign ownership in the sector, stating, “We cannot afford to wake up one day and realise that our cement industry, one of the backbones of our economy, is entirely in foreign hands.”

The acquisition closed in August at a value of $1 billion (about ₦1.6 trillion). Earlier this year, the new majority owner announced expansion plans for the Ashaka Cement plant in Gombe and the Shagamu plant. HBM Nigeria also reassured investors that existing share certificates and electronic holdings remain valid and will be updated automatically by registrars.

How do you think the rebranding to HBM Nigeria will influence the company’s future growth and market position?