By: Ubong Usoro
Vendors of building and housing materials at Dei Dei International Building Materials Market in Abuja have blamed the rising cost of clearing imported goods for the soaring prices of construction materials in the country.
Many traders say the high costs have significantly reduced patronage, as potential buyers struggle to afford essential building supplies.
Dei Dei International Building Materials Market is regarded as the largest construction materials hub in North Central Nigeria. The market offers a wide range of building supplies, including tiles, rafters, plumbing fixtures, and electrical components. Located in the heart of Abuja, it serves both highbrow and densely populated areas within the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC).
During a visit by the Housing TV team, traders expressed their concerns about the increasing difficulties in conducting business due to inflation, high import costs, and transportation challenges.
Emmanuel John Udeh, a dealer in toilet fittings and accessories, lamented the current business climate. “Business has not been friendly. Clearing a container of goods from Lagos that used to cost about ₦7 million now goes for ₦25 million. We have to factor this cost into our prices, making the goods too expensive for buyers. Additionally, transportation is another major problem—getting a trailer to move goods from Lagos to Abuja now costs millions of naira,” he said.
He added, “My WC Verona, which used to sell for ₦65,000, now sells for ₦150,000. The one that was ₦45,000 is now ₦125,000, while the ₦60,000 model now costs ₦160,000. The one that sold for ₦50,000 now goes for ₦120,000. Many people are prioritizing feeding over building, which is affecting sales.”
Paul Ibeabuchi, a wholesale and retail dealer in electrical appliances, emphasized that while purchasing goods abroad remains relatively affordable, the challenge lies in bringing them into the country. “Buying products outside Nigeria is not expensive, but clearing them at the ports is. The high cost of clearance makes it difficult for most Nigerians to afford these products,” he stated.
He further explained, “A fire tripper that used to sell for ₦3,500 per piece now costs ₦8,500. Sockets that were ₦1,300 now go for ₦1,800, while those previously sold for ₦800 are now ₦1,200.”
Chukwunosu Ezeudogu, a dealer in paints, PoP, and tiles, also voiced his frustration. “Prices are constantly changing, and it is very discouraging,” he said.
He continued, “Tiles that used to sell for ₦7,000 per square meter now cost ₦11,000. PoP that previously sold for ₦7,000 now goes for ₦11,000 for the cheapest quality.”
Ezeudogu urged the government to step in and stabilize the cost of building materials. “The government should assist in controlling these price hikes by ensuring constant power supply and reducing clearance fees. This will go a long way in making building materials more affordable,” he appealed.
As the cost of construction materials continues to soar, traders at Dei Dei International Market hope for swift government intervention to prevent further business losses and make housing development more accessible to Nigerians.
