Lafarge Africa becomes HBM Nigeria as company enters new era under Chinese ownership

Lafarge Africa Plc has officially rebranded as HBM Nigeria Plc, marking a significant milestone in its corporate transformation and signalling a new chapter under its new ownership structure.

The company said the rebranding reflects its “evolved business vision, long-term growth objectives and renewed commitment to delivering superior value to stakeholders”.

The transition follows the acquisition of Lafarge Africa by China-based Huaxin Building Materials, with the new name, HBM Nigeria, representing the company's strategic alignment with its parent organisation while reinforcing its commitment to Nigeria's industrial development.

Speaking on the development, the Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Mr Lolu Alade-Akinyemi, said the new identity underscores a future-focused strategy built around operational excellence, innovation, sustainability and long-term value creation.

He explained that the name change represents a key milestone in the company's transformation journey while strengthening its position as one of Nigeria's leading building solutions providers.

According to him, the company will continue to combine its strong local presence with enhanced global industrial collaboration.

He also reassured stakeholders that the rebranding would not affect business operations, employees, customers, shareholders or the company's longstanding commitment to supporting Nigeria's economic growth and infrastructure expansion.

“HBM Nigeria Plc represents an exciting new chapter in our journey as a leading building solutions company. While our corporate identity is evolving, our commitment to Nigeria remains unwavering.

“We remain focused on delivering quality cement, concrete, aggregates, and innovative building solutions that support infrastructure development, housing growth, and industrialisation.

“This transition positions us for the future while reinforcing the values of excellence, sustainability, customer satisfaction, and responsible business practices that have defined our legacy for decades,” he stated.

Mr Alade-Akinyemi added that the transition to HBM Nigeria Plc would be implemented in phases across the company's nationwide operations.

He said employees, customers, shareholders, investors, host communities and other stakeholders should expect seamless business continuity, sustained investments and an even stronger focus on delivering long-term economic and social value.

Chairman of HBM Nigeria Plc, Mr Gbenga Oyebode, said the rebranding is intended to secure the company's long-term future while preserving the values that have shaped its legacy over the years.

“I would like to express my sincere appreciation to our shareholders for their continued trust, to the Board and Management for their leadership, and to our employees whose dedication and commitment continue to drive the company forward.

“We are confident that HBM Nigeria Plc will continue to create sustainable value for shareholders, strengthen stakeholder trust, and deliver on its long-term ambitions,” Mr Oyebode said.

Also speaking at the event, Nigeria's Minister of Works, Mr David Umahi, praised the company for its contributions to infrastructure development across the country.

Highlighting its support for the Federal Government's infrastructure agenda, he said: “I can talk about Lafarge for a whole day because we have come a long way. Though the company is very strict and of high integrity, I can say that their products are impeccable.”

The rebranding follows shareholder approval at the company's annual general meeting held in May 2026, formally paving the way for the transition from Holcim to its new Chinese owner.

The move comes after Swiss building materials giant Holcim agreed in December 2024 to sell its 83 per cent stake in Lafarge Africa to Chinese cement manufacturer Huaxin Cement.

Huaxin Building Materials completed the acquisition in mid-2025, while shareholders subsequently approved the company's new identity in 2026. The board was also authorised to amend the company's articles of association and undertake all necessary actions to implement the change.

Despite the change in name and ownership structure, HBM Nigeria has emphasised that its strategic priorities remain unchanged, with continued investment in quality building materials and infrastructure development across Nigeria.