Lafarge Africa Plc has recommended a significant boost in dividend payout for the 2025 financial year, proposing a gross dividend of 600 kobo per ordinary share, up five times from the 120 kobo paid in 2024. The proposed total dividend of approximately N96.65 billion reflects the company’s strong earnings growth and improved operational efficiency.
According to filings with the Nigerian Exchange Limited, the final dividend will be paid to shareholders registered by the close of business on 3 April 2026, pending approval at the company’s Annual General Meeting scheduled for 30 April 2026.
The surge in dividend is supported by a 53 percent increase in net sales, which rose to N1.07 trillion from N696.76 billion in 2024, driven by volume growth, enhanced plant stability, and improved distribution efficiency. Operating profit more than doubled to N392 billion, while Profit After Tax grew 173 percent to N27 billion, underpinned by disciplined cost optimisation and operational improvements.
Chief Executive Officer Lolu Alade-Akinyemi described the 2025 results as a testament to the effectiveness of Lafarge Africa’s strategic execution and focus on value creation. He highlighted that achieving N1 trillion in net sales and widening operating margins to 37 percent marks a historic milestone for the company.
Looking ahead, the CEO expressed optimism about 2026, noting that the collaboration with international investor Huaxin Building Materials Group Co Ltd positions Lafarge Africa to capitalise on emerging market opportunities. Alade-Akinyemi reaffirmed the company’s commitment to resilient performance, sustainable growth, and enhanced shareholder value.
The dividend announcement comes after Holcim, the previous majority shareholder, sold its 83.81 percent stake in Lafarge Africa to Huaxin, a transaction approved by the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission in July 2025.
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