: Lafarge

Lafarge WAPCO Celebrates Customers

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 12:43:48 GMT

Lagos: February 21, 2012: In a bid to foster excellence and reward customer loyalty, Lafarge Cement WAPCO Nigeria Plc, a leading Cement company, today held its Annual Customers' Award Ceremony at its Agbesi Estate in Ewekoro, Ogun State.

The Award Ceremony, which is the seventh edition is designed to appreciate the support enjoyed by the company from its numerous customers nationwide and avail the customers of the company's initiatives aimed at serving them better.

Speaking at this year's event, the Chairman, Board of Directors of Lafarge WAPCO, Chief Olusegun Osunkeye (OFR) said the award ceremony is a demonstration of the company's commitment to constant appreciation of customers who have kept faith with the company, even in the face of challenges.

Chief Osunkeye said "with the commissioning of our new 2.5 million metric tonnes, Ewekoro II plant last year, the company is committed to providing more of Elephant Cement and Elephant Supaset every day to our customers".

Continuing, he said, "as a true leader in the cement Industry in Nigeria, we have fully connected to the Federal Government's Backward Integration Policy which emphasizes on self-sufficiency in cement". While congratulating the award winners, Chief Osunkeye solicited for the continuous support and loyalty of the customers.

In his remarks, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Joe Hudson said "as a premium Cement Company in Nigeria, customer satisfaction is very key to the organization and the company will not relent in providing valued added products and services to customers''. With our global expertise in cement, we will make a difference in our Industry by providing not only cement but building solutions and services that will add value to our customers.

"Our Readymix business is an innovation that we have brought to the market. Our new plant can produce four different types of cement to meet customers' unique needs. These are some of the areas where our differentiation lies and we will not relent on our brand promises"

This year's award will see customers smiling home with tangible gifts for various categories of the award such as: Highest National Volume buyer, 2nd Best National Volume buyer, 3rd Best National Volume buyer, Highest Volume buyer per region, Highest Volume buyer in each territory, Loyalty Award, Highest Volume Growth by Region, Corporate Patronage, Highest Volume in New Market, Best Retailer, Recognition Award for 40 top Distributors, Best Emerging Customers, Evergreen Award and Top 3 Frontline Contractors.

CUSTOMER SERVICE

Customer orientation remains the driving force of operations in Lafarge WAPCO. To optimize our sales, we have re-evolved a dynamic Sales force with customer satisfaction as their priority in order to serve you better. In addition to this, Customers Complaints Management Unit has been reorganized to ensure quick response to customers' issues

To further satisfy customers' demand and improve on the volume of cement available in the Nigerian market, the company has optimized its depot strategy with opening of twelve (12) new depots across the nation.In addition, a newly-introduced electronic collection system will improve service delivery so customers can carry out business transactions with ease.

RAIL TRANSPORT

Lafarge WAPCO remains the only cement company that is connected to rail in Nigeria. In 2011, in partnership with the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), the Honorable Minister for Transport, Hon Idris Umar at the company's Ewekoro Plant, flagged off rail haulage of cement for faster and regular supply of cement to customers nationwide.

The company has since been distributing cement by rail to key areas in Lagos, Ibadan, Osogbo and Ilorin.

State-of-the-art Lafarge Cement Plant Officially Opened By President Goodluck Jonathan

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 15:13:29 GMT

December 20, 2011: Lagos: The President, Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, today inaugurated Lafarge WAPCO's new 2.5 million tonnes cement plant Ewekoro II in Ogun State. The ceremony took place in the presence of Mr. Bruno Lafont, Chairman and CEO of Lafarge Group, the world leader in building materials.

This new plant, which represents an investment of N75 billion (€350 million), will more than double the output of the plant to 4.5 million tonnes, adding about 12,000 tonnes of cement to the market every day. In total, Lafarge can now domestically manufacture 8 million tonnes of cement every year.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, the Chairman of the Board of Directors, Chief Olusegun Osunkeye (OFR) said: "the commissioning of Ewekoro II not only marks another remarkable milestone in the annals of our company, but also in the economic and industrial development of this great nation and Africa as a continent''

Continuing, Osunkeye said, ‘‘this new plant helps to keep Nigeria self-sufficient in cement. It will create the foundations for future economic development in our country. It will employ, and provide skills for hundreds of Nigerians and it will benefit hundreds more indirectly''

In his own remarks, the Lafarge Group Chairman and CEO, Mr Bruno Lafont said ‘‘Africa is an important region for Lafarge. Nigeria is a key country for us, particularly because of the strong bonds we have built with our customers and communities during the 10 years we have been operating here.

"We remain fully committed to this country, working in partnership with our customers in providing high-quality and innovative products that will add value to their businesses. Throughout the long history of our operations, our products have helped shape the Nigerian landscape and will continue to do so for many years to come.''

Construction of a brand new onsite 90 MW power plant was included in the project. The new plant, which was commissioned by Ogun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, will supply the electricity required for the cement-making process, to reduce the impact of fluctuations in the energy supply on production.

Bringing a positive contribution to people

In line with WAPCO's commitment to providing local job opportunities, 3,000 people were engaged during the three-year construction of the state-of-the-art plant - 70 per cent of whom were Nigerians. The whole Ewekoro site now employs nearly 1,000 people, 95 per cent of whom are Nigerian.

The plant was constructed with a focus on the Lafarge's number one priority, Health and Safety. During construction, 50 people were dedicated to this topic alone, with advice and support provided by the British Safety Council and DuPont, a recognised leader in this field.

As well as developing a plant with the latest technology, Lafarge has also been focused on developing the skills and experience of its team - a dedicated onsite training centre built at the start of this project delivered over 80,000 hours of training during the construction phase.

An enhanced service for customers

Ewekoro II plant is a further declaration of Lafarge's commitment to innovation, with the capacity to produce four different types of cement to better serve customers' specific requirements. This ability to match products to customers needs is a reflection of the fact that Lafarge has the largest research centre in the construction materials industry, investing €150 million in technology and innovation in products, systems and industrial processes every year.

Lafarge WAPCO has also taken a wide range of actions to optimize its logistics network, further satisfy customers' demands and improve on the volume of cement available in the Nigerian market, including:

- opening 12 new depots across the nation

- commissioning 410 brand new trucks

- introducing a new electronic collection system to improve service delivery

These actions are supported by the introduction of new access points to the operational site and a new 600-truck capacity onsite trailer park.

In addition to this, a partnership has been signed with the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) to reinforce Lafarge's position as the only domestic cement company connected to rail. Honorable Minister for Transport, Idris Umar was present to formally commemorate the first rail haulage of cement on 6 October, 2011. Since then, rail has been used to distribute cement faster to customers nationwide, including to key areas such as Lagos, Ibadan, Osogbo and Ilorin.

Caring for the environment

Lafarge WAPCO is committed to reduce the environmental impact of its activities. Ewekoro II has been built maintaining great consideration for the environment with state-of-the-art filtering equipment designed to minimise emissions - the plant will be among the cleanest plants in Africa. The plant is also currently developing a project to use biomass as an alternative fuel to partially offset the use of fossil fuels at its cement facilities. This would also provide socio-economic benefits in terms of employment generation within the community.

Notes to editors

Lafarge Cement WAPCO Nigeria Plc is a leading manufacturer and marketer of cement. Lafarge WAPCO is a subsidiary of France-based Lafarge SA, the world leader in building materials.

With its state-of-the-art plant in Ewekoro, Lafarge WAPCO is the manufacturer of Elephant Cement, a five decade old formidable brand that has consistently won the NIS Certificate for product quality by the Nigerian Standard Organisation for over two decades.

Additional information is available on the web site at www.lafargewapco.com

Lafarge is the world leader in building materials, with top-ranking positions in all of its businesses: Cement, Aggregates & Concrete and Gypsum. With 76,000 employees in 78 countries, Lafarge posted sales of Euros 16.2 billion in 2010.

Lafarge was ranked 6^th in the "Carbon Disclosure Project" and entered the global "Dow Jones Sustainability Index" in 2010 in recognition of its sustainable development actions. With the world's leading building materials research facility, Lafarge places innovation at the heart of its priorities, working for sustainable construction and architectural creativity.

Additional information is available on the web site at www.lafarge.com

Lafarge’s Ewekoro II Plant Boosts Cement Supply, Gets Set For Inauguration

Mon, 14 Nov 2011 16:14:23 GMT

November 14, 2011: Lagos: Ahead of the official inauguration of its new cement plant, leading Cement Manufacturing Company, Lafarge Cement WAPCO Nigeria Plc has boosted the supply of cement to the Nigerian market.

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the company, Mr. Samy Abdelkader disclosed this during a facility tour organised for the media at its Ewekoro II Plant.

Mr Abdelkader disclosed that having commenced production from the plant (Ewekoro II code named Lakatabu) since September 16, 2011, Lafarge WAPCO has successfully been adding about 12,000tons of cement daily to the Nigerian cement market.

Continuing, Mr. Abdelkader said "our Kiln was lit up on the 22^nd of July and produced the first clinker in July 30, 2011 which was coincided with the visit of Honorable Minister for Trade and Investment, Hon. Oluwasegun Aganga. Within 45 days of this achievement, we recorded other milestones by producing the first cement on September 16 and later, our first bag of cement on the 29^th of the same month"

"Today, I am happy to share with you that Ewekoro II Plant has achieved 55, 294 tones of clinker production, grinded 37,408 tones cement and also despatched 35, 848 tones of cement to the Nigerian cement market"

In order to ensure continuous production without power interruption, the new Ewekoro II plant is supported by a 90 MW Power Plant, which was commissioned on June 30, 2011 by the Ogun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun. The power plant has six 15 Mega Watt Units which equals to 90 Mega Watt installed capacity with a dual-firing system that can use both gas and liquid fuel (AGO/LPFO).

Speaking at the event, the company's Plant Manager, Ewekoro II, Mr. Lanre Opakunle said the plant is fully operational with the kiln, Vertical Rawmill, Cement Mills and the Packers in good and stable condition. He further added that "our new plant is a demonstration of our commitment to support the Federal Government's policy on self-sufficiency in cement production"

To further satisfy customers' demand and improve on the volume of cement available in the Nigerian market, the company has optimized its depot strategy with opening of twelve (12) new depots across the nation and also took delivery of about 100 brand new trucks to enhance its logistics system.

In addition, a newly-introduced electronic collection system will improve service delivery so customers can carry out business transactions with ease.

Few weeks back, in partnership with the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), the Honorable Minister for Transport, Hon Idris Umar at the company's Ewekoro Plant, flagged off rail haulage of cement for faster and regular supply of cement to customers nationwide.

The company has since been distributing cement by rail to key areas in Lagos, Ibadan, Osogbo and Ilorin. Lafarge WAPCO remains the only cement company that is connected to rail in Nigeria.

Lafarge WAPCO Raises N11.8 Billion Bond

Fri, 07 Oct 2011 12:14:25 GMT

October,2011: Lagos: Leading Cement Manufacturing Company, Lafarge Cement WAPCO Nigeria PLC has raised a total sum of N11.8 billion from the Series 1 of the N50 Billion Bond Issuance Programme at a fixed interest rate of 11.5% during the Completion Board Meeting of the company in Lagos.

The first series of the Bond Issuance Programme which is a 3 year fixed rate (2011-2014) Bond was offered to subscribers by way of a Book Build which was brought to a close on Friday October 7, 2011. Proceeds from this issue will be utilized to re-finance part of the Company's existing variable interest loan facilities on the Lakatabu Expansion Project.

The Bond was rated A+ by Agusto & Co and AA- by Global Credit Rating Co. (GCR) on the strength of the Company's robust security structure , market positioning and future cashflows.

Speaking at the Company's Completion Board Meeting, the Chairman, Board of Directors, Chief Olusegun Osunkeye said "we are happy to see significant level of interest in the first series of the Bond despite difficult market conditions and this for us is a demonstration of the trust in the fundamentals of our Company by the investing public"

The Bond will be secured using the existing security structure of the Syndicated Multi-currency Medium Term Facilities and the Bondholders who are represented by Trustees will share in the all assets debenture set up by the company and will rank side by side with all the existing facility lenders.

In his own remarks, the Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Samy Abdelkader said that "the order book for the first series of the Bond Issuance programme provided to us liquidity at a rate that will enable us to fix part of our variable interest loans".

While commenting on bond, the Finance Director, Mr. Alfred Amobi, said ‘‘the successful completion of the first series of the Bond Programme is an important milestone in our re-financing strategy''.

Subscription to the Bond was opened to qualified Nigerians, international and high net worth investors. Interest on the Bond will be paid half-yearly with a bullet repayment of principal at the end of the third year.

The lead Issuing House for the Bond Issuance Programme is Chapel Hill Advisory Partners Limited. Joint Issuing Houses include Access Bank Plc, Citibank Nigeria Limited, Ecobank Plc, FBN Capital Limited, FCMB Capital Markets Limited, First Securities Discount House Limited, Guaranty Trust Bank Plc, Keystone Bank Limited, Stanbic IBTC Bank Plc, Standard Chartered Bank Limited and Union Capital Markets Limited.

The Company's new Plant, Ewekoro II, code named "Lakatabu" has commenced production with its first cement on September 16, 2011. Ewekoro II has 2.5 million metric tonnes per annum cement production capacity which will bring the company's total production capacity to 4.5 million metric tonnes per annum after inauguration in the next few days.

The new plant is supported by a 90 MW Power Plant which is in excess of the requirements of the cement plants and the company is currently exploring the possibility of transfering this excess power to the National Grid.

Upon the official commissioning of the Plant, Lafarge Cement WAPCO Nigeria Plc will be adding about 12,000 tons of cement to the Nigeria cement market every day.

Last week, in partnership with the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), the Honorable Minister for Transport, Hon Idris Umar at the company's Ewekoro Plant, flagged off rail haulage of cement for faster and regular supply of cement to customers nationwide.

Lafarge WAPCO Commences Rail Distribution of Cement

Thu, 06 Oct 2011 12:53:34 GMT

October 6, 2011: Lagos: In partnership with the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Leading Cement Manufacturing Company, Lafarge Cement WAPCO Nigeria Plc, has commenced transportation of cement from its Ewekoro Plant by rail to its customers nationwide. Lafarge WAPCO is the only cement company connected by rail in Nigeria.

The partnership which will ensure faster and regular supply of the company's products (Elephant and Supaset cement) to the target customers, will see NRC moving about 2,000tons of cement per week on a short term and later 6,000tons on a weekly basis.

Speaking at the Ministerial Flag off to officially commence the operations at the Ewekoro Plant of the company, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Lafarge WAPCO, Mr. Samy Abdelkader, said, "We will continue to partner with Government in order to achieve the dream of self sufficiency and availability of cement in Nigeria. This is another way to demonstrate our support to the Federal Government's policy of Backward Integration in the Cement subsector".

Continuing, Abdelkader, said "Lafarge WAPCO is committed to making cement available to Nigerians at all times and this is why this partnership with the Nigerian Railway Corporation is very important to us. We are optimistic that the use of Rail Transport will go a long way to ensure that our products - Elephant Cement and Supaset - get to the final users in a safe, reliable and faster way.

It will interest you to know that, apart from the opportunity of reaching our far distance customers in the North, the haulage by train will also help to reduce the traffic congestions on our roads. For example, one single haulage trip by rail is equivalent to 25 trucks of cement which would ordinarily have taken about two or four days to deliver, thus reducing the pressure on our roads".

Abdelkader also noted that being a safety conscious organization, the Company is looking into the peculiarities of rail transport in order to see how best to make the operation safe.

Lafarge WAPCO has been partnering with the Nigerian Railway Corporation since its establishment to transport its products to customers. The Company has equally optimized its depot strategy with the opening of tewlve (12) new depots across the nation, while its logistics system is also being enhanced with brand new trucks.

Lafarge WAPCO Launches N50 Billion Bond Programme

Fri, 16 Sep 2011 13:10:47 GMT

September, 2011: Lagos: Leading Cement Manufacturing Company, Lafarge Cement WAPCO Nigeria Plc, has registered a N50 Billion Bond Issuance Programme. The Bond Issuance Programme was approved by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on September 16, 2011.

The first series of the Bond Issuance Program which will be a 3 year fixed rate bond (2011-2014), is being offered to investors for subscription by way of Book Build. Subscription to the bond is open to qualified Nigerians, International, Institutional and high net worth investors.

Interest on the bond will be paid half-yearly with a bullet repayment of principal at the end of the third year. The proceeds from this issue will be utilized to re-finance part of the Company's existing variable interest loan facilities on the Lakatabu Expansion Project.

Speaking at the Company's Investors Forum in Lagos and Abuja, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Samy Abdelkader said "the bond issuance is part of a planned programme to optimize the medium term debts of the Company and thereby address the volatility inherent in the large proportion of the variable interest loan facilities. Currently, approximately 75% of the Company's medium term debts attract floating interest rates".

In his remarks, the Company's Finance Director, Mr. Fred Amobi, said "the bond will be secured using the existing security structure of the Syndicated Multi-currency Medium Term Facilities and that the Bondholders represented by Trustees will share in the all assets debenture set up by the Company and will rank pari passu with all the existing facility lenders".

The Series 1 of the Bond Issuance Programme was rated A+ by Agusto & Co and AA- by Global Credit Rating Co. (GCR) on the strength of the Company's robust security structure, market positioning and future cash flows.

The new Company's Plant, Ewekoro II, code named "Lakatabu" produced its first clinker in July 2011. Ewekoro II has 2.2 million metric tonnes per annum cement production capacity which will bring the company's total production capacity to 4.2 million metric tonnes per annum after inauguration in the next few weeks.

Lafarge’s Ewekoro II Plant Produces 1st Cement

Fri, 16 Sep 2011 12:46:21 GMT

September 16, 2011: Lagos: Leading Cement Manufacturing Company, Lafarge Cement WAPCO Nigeria Plc's 2.5 million metric tons new cement plant, Ewekoro II has produced its first cement for the Nigerian market on Monday, September 16, 2011 few days to the official inauguration of the Plant.

This landmark achievement was attained eight weeks after the plant produced its inaugural clinker.

The Greenfield cement plant will double the overall volume of Lafarge WAPCO's products (including Elephant Cement and Elephant Supaset) supplied into the Nigerian market - from 2.0 million to 4.5 million metric tonnes.

Speaking on this achievement, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Samy Abdelkader said that "the importance of this historic milestone in our 50 years of quality cement production is that very soon enough cement will be readily available for Nigerians. "

Continuing, Abdelkader said "our company has fully keyed in to the Federal Government's Backward Integration Policy which aims at self-sufficiency in cement production."

In order to ensure continuous production without power interruption, the new Ewekoro II plant is supported by a 90 MW Power Plant, which was commissioned in June by the Ogun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun.

Upon the official commissioning of the Plant in the next few days, Lafarge Cement WAPCO Nigeria Plc will be adding about 12,000 tons of cement to the Nigeria cement market every day.

"We are convinced that there will be an appreciable stability of supply in the cement sub-sector when there is more volume of cement made available to Nigerians.The new plant will also be a testimony to the company's leadership in innovation as it has the capacity to produce four different varieties of cement to better serve customers' special requirements.

CUSTOMER FOCUS

The company has a dynamic sales force, ensuring customer satisfaction remains central to the company's sales philosophy.

Lafarge WAPCO has equally optimized its depot strategy with the opening of nineteen (19) new depots across the nation. In addition, a newly introduced electronic collection system will improve service delivery so customers can carry out business transactions with ease.

The logistics system is also being enhanced with brand new trucks and a new business partnership with the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) for haulage of cement by rail, as Ewekoro is rail connected.

Lafarge WAPCO Relaunches Elephant Cement Club Golf Course

Sun, 04 Sep 2011 12:56:08 GMT

September 4, 2011: Leading cement manufacturing company, Lafarge Cement WAPCO Nigeria Plc, has re-launched its Elephant Cement Club Golf Course in Ewekoro, Ogun State.

The company's golf course was a beehive of activities at the weekend when golfers trooped to its Ishofin Estate to witness the official re-opening on the platform of the ‘Ewekoro Golf Course Re-Launch Championship'. Two key highlights of the relaunch include the conversion of 18 browns into greens and the renovation of the clubhouse.

In his welcome address, the Country Manager, Lafarge Nigeria and Benin Republic, Jean-Christophe Barbant said the key objective of the re-launch is to further grow patronage for the club and make it a destination of choice for golfers. "We are convinced that with this development, our Company will be able to attract people especially golf lovers from all over the world and showcase us more as a very impactful organisation."

The Operations Preparation Manager, Lafarge WAPCO, Lanre Opakunle, in his remarks said the original idea and one of the enduring objectives behind the golf course is "to encourage staff to participate in sports as a way of recreation, maintain a work-life balance and enhance healthy living among our people".

Furthermore, he informed that "Macmahon has partnered with Lafarge WAPCO to make the tournament an annual event".

The event which was attended by about 180 golfers saw a lot of the participants smiling home with awards and prizes in various categories, among which are: Best Gross, 1st Runner-Up Gross; Best Net Score Male, 2nd,3rd, 4th, and 5th Runner Ups; Best Net Score Ladies and 1st Runner Up Ladies; Best Guest and 1st Runner Up Guest; Longest Drive and Nearest Pin.

Elephant Cement Club, Ewekoro, is one of the foremost golf courses in Nigeria and has, for over four decades, enjoyed patronage from captains of industries and expatriates.Si comes obierit, cujus filius nobiscum sit, filius noster, cum ceteris fidelibus nostris, ordinet de his qui illi plus familiares et propinquiores fuerint, qui cum ministerialibus ipsius comitatus et episcopo ipsum comitatum praevideat, usque dum nobis renuntietur.

Lafarge’s Ewekoro II Cement Plant Produces First Clinker

Sat, 30 Jul 2011 13:27:30 GMT

July 30, 2011: Lagos: Leading cement manufacturing company, Lafarge Cement WAPCO Nigeria Plc, has produced the first clinker from its new 2.5 Million metric tonnes, Ewekoro II (code named Lakatabu) valued at N75 billion (350m Euro) on Saturday, July 30, 2011.

This achievement came exactly one month after the company commissioned its N23 billion 90MW power plant in Ewekoro. It also coincided with the inaugural visit of the Honourable Minister for Trade and Investment, Mr. Oluwasegun Aganga to the company.

When fully operational, the greenfield cement plant will double the overall volume of Lafarge cement products (including Elephant Cement and Elephant Supaset) supplied into the Nigerian market - from 2.0 milion to 4.5 million metric tonnes.

While commending the company on the efforts and investments that have gone into the construction of the new plant, and the key milestone of first clinker, the Minister said the government is interested in partnering with the company and leveraging Lafarge's global spread and experience to attract more investments into Nigeria.

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Samy Abdelkader, while welcoming the minister to the company's plants in Ewekoro announced, "today a crucial milestone is achieved in our new Ewekoro II Plant as the first clinker is being produced. The first clinker, (semi-finished cement), is a crucial milestone towards project completion".

Continuing, he said, "the implication of this historic milestone in our 50 years of quality cement production is that with enough clinker being produced locally, more cement will be readily available for Nigerians. This is clear testimony that our company has fully keyed in to the Federal Government's Backward Integration Policy which aims at self-sufficiency in cement production. It also proves that when we promise, we deliver".

Upon the commissioning of Ewekoro II in the next few weeks, Lafarge Cement WAPCO Nigeria Plc will be adding about 12,000 tons of cement to the Nigeria cement market every day.

"We are convinced that there will be an appreciable stability of supply in the cement sub-sector when there is more volume of cement made available to Nigerians.

The new plant will also be a testimony to the company's leadership in innovation as it has the capacity to produce four different varieties of cement to better serve customers' special requirements.

Lafarge Wapco Gets Set To Commission New Cement Plant

Wed, 08 Jun 2011 13:16:17 GMT

To satisfy customers' demand and improve on the volume of cement available in the Nigerian market, leading cement company Lafarge Cement WAPCO Nigeria Plc will commission in the next few weeks its new 2.5 million tonnes Lakatabu plant in Ewekoro.

Once operational, production at the new plant will double the overall capacity of Lafarge cement products, including Elephant Cement and Elephant Supaset, supplied into the Nigerian market

Speaking at a media facility tour organized for journalists in Ewekoro, the company's Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Samy Abdelkader, said "I am happy to inform you that our Lakatabu Project, which we started in 2009 will be commissioned in the next few weeks, as we finalise the construction of the infrastructure necessary to make cement. "

Continuing, Abdelkader said, "Lafarge WAPCO is wholly committed to remain a true leader by delivering value to our customers and the built sector. What you are experiencing today is a reflection of the fact that when we promise, we deliver. We are completing the plant on schedule as promised to all our stakeholders."

Mr. Abdelkader further reiterated that "our company has keyed into the Federal Government's Backward Integration Policy which aims at self-sufficiency in cement production.

Upon the commissioning of Lakatabu, Lafarge Cement WAPCO Nigeria Plc will be contributing around 12,000 tons of cement to the Nigeria cement market on a daily basis. The new plant will be a testimony to the company's leadership in innovation as it has the capacity to produce four different qualities of cement to better serve customers' special requirements.

CUSTOMER FOCUS

The company has a dynamic sales force, ensuring customer satisfaction remains central to the company's sales philosophy.

The new plant has the capacity to produce four different qualities of cement to better serve our end customers' requirements.

Lafarge WAPCO has equally optimized its depot strategy with opening of nineteen (19) new depots across the nation. In addition, a newly-introduced electronic collection system will improve service delivery so customers can carry out business transactions with ease.

The logistics system is also being enhanced with brand new trucks and a new business partnership with the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) for haulage of cement by rail as Ewekoro is rail connected

HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT

The plant has been constructed with strict adherence to the company's world-class Health and Safety Policy which puts the emphasis on safety of all stakeholders during and after the construction phase.

The company is continuously working with consultants to monitor the environment and ensure compliance with the Equator principle.

To enhance logistics safety and environmental aesthetics, the company has built a new roundabout around the Agbesi Estate of the Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway and is finalising the construction of a 600-truck capacity trailer park.

EMPLOYMENT

In line with its commitment to providing job opportunities for young Nigerians, 3000 people were engaged during the two-and-a-half years of building the state-of-the-art plant with 70% of those employed being Nigerians. Post commissioning, a staff of around 600 employees are required to run the plant and 95% of those are Nigerian, including 210 Lafarge WAPCO staff.

A NEW POWER PLANT

In order to maintain a good supply of cement and ensure effective and continuous operation of its plants without power interruption, a 90-Mega-Watt Power Plant has been completed and is being commissioned alongside the new cement plant.

The power plant, which has a dual-firing system so it can use both gas and liquid fuel (AGO/LPFO), will also be supplying power to the existing Ewekoro factory.

Lafarge Wapco Launches Health And Safety Month…Emphasises Transport Safety

Wed, 01 Jun 2011 12:10:45 GMT

Lagos, Nigeria, June 1, 2011: Lafarge Cement WAPCO Nigeria Plc, a leading cement manufacturing company has launched its annual Health and Safety Month in all its three locations: Lagos, Sagamu and Ewekoro.

The theme of this year is "Transport Safety" covering activities linked to the movement of vehicles, equipment and pedestrians on or off the plant. These activities were designed to create awareness amongst the company's stakeholders on the necessary precautions required in order to operate transport in a safe manner.

The Health and Safety Month which is observed in all the 78 countries of the World's number one cement manufacturing company, Lafarge S.A, focuses on three key areas :Mobile Equipment, People Transport and Logistic Safety. Focus will also be on Occupational and Public Health.

At the country level, activities for the month will include : training of Stakeholders on Safety Standard and Procedures, Defensive Driving and Journey Management Techniques.

There will also be Road Shows on Safety Driving Campaigns at some Motor Parks in the three locations of the company. This will be done in conjunction with Federal Road Safety Corps(FRSC).

Spouses and Children of the company's Staff are not left out in the programme as Family Open Day is organised to share Staff commitments to Health and Safety with spouses and children. Other activities include : House Keeping and Health Assessments for drivers and transporters.

Speaking at the launch, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Lafarge WAPCO, Mr. Samy Abdelkader, said: "Health and Safety is Lafarge's number one priority. The safe operation of transport is a key element of our operations. We are organising road safety events at our site to reflect the importance of this issue to everyone at the site. Across the world, it's estimated that 50 million people are seriously injured in road incidents each year, demonstrating that this is a subject that applies to everyone''

Abdelkader passionately appealed, "I personally want to see our staff and contractors leave home for work and return safe to their families. Hence, we are further driving key messages and actions on Safety both during work and off-work. A lot of activities have been put together to enlighten our staff, contractors, neighbours and indeed all stakeholders on the necessary precautions required in order to operate transport in a safe manner''.

The campaign behind Health & Safety Month centres on making choices that can eliminate risks for drivers and pedestrians. The importance of transport safety has also been recognised by the World Health Organization and United Nations, who launched in May the first global Plan for the Decade of Action for Road Safety.

Lafarge considers Health and Safety as it No 1 business priority. The company integrates Health and Safety objectives into management systems at all levels by regarding Safety as the best indicator for performance of staff and contractors.

Worldwide, Lafarge is now the safest company in its sector with a frequency rate of accidents with lost 0.76 (per million hours worked). The road is still long, so Lafarge has set itself a target simple and ambitious: to achieve ‘zero fatalities and zero occupational disease.

Lafarge Wapco Assures Shareholders Of Sustainable Growth…Pays Out Dividend of N750million

Fri, 20 May 2011 11:45:19 GMT

Lagos, Nigeria, May 20, 2011: The Chairman, Board of Directors, Lafarge Cement WAPCO Nigeria Plc, Chief Olusegun Osunkeye (OON) has assured Shareholders and all Stakeholders of a bright horizon and continuous sustainability of the Company.

Chief Osunkeye gave this assurance at the Company's 52nd Annual General Meeting (AGM) which held today at the Muson Centre, Onikan, Lagos, Nigeria.

According to Chief Osunkeye, ‘‘the Company's commitment to innovation and customer care; ongoing Lakatabu capacity expansion project; several performance improvement activities; commitments to the values of Health and Safety and Corporate Governance, will continue to make the Company an investor's choice."

RESULT FOR THE YEAR

The Company recorded a net profit after taxation of N4.88 billion which means that excluding the exceptional income in respect of insurance claims recorded for 2009, net profit after taxation remained flat despite a marginal reduction in turnover. The Company's turnover in 2010 dropped by 3.8% compared to 2009 as a result of the prolonged wet rainy season, rise in inflation rate from 9.8% in 2009 to 11.8% in 2010, significant increase in prices of petroleum products and its knock-on effects on transport, energy and cost of service.This affected demand,especially in the second half of the year.

The impact of this reduction on the profit for the year was, however, partly offset by several operating cost reduction initiatives embarked upon by the Company. Given this situation and to limit the amount of borrowing for the completion of the Lakabatu Project, the Board of Directors proposed for the approval of shareholders a gross dividend of N0.25 kobo on every Ordinary Share in issue. This represents an increase of 150% on the dividend paid on 2009 financial result.

FUTURE OUTLOOK

The Lakatabu expansion project holds the future for the Company and its competitiveness in the local cement market. The completion of the project will take the Company's total cement production capacity to 4.5 million metric tonnes per annum. We all look forward to the successful completion and commissioning of this plant in the next few weeks.

To ensure that the existing cement plants of the company are able to operate with some flexibility in terms of primary fuel required for the operation of the plants, the Dual Firing projects at both the Ewekoro and Sagamu plants were completed in 2010.

This means that both plants can run on natural gas and Low Pour Fuel oil(LPFO) which provides the required flexibility to maintain cement production in times of disruptions in the supply of one or the other.

A new cement packing machine was equally installed at Sagamu Plant. The installation will help to assure the operation of the Plant towards the future and retention of market share in the South West.

In February, 2011, the company flagged off its logistics project geared towards enhancing the delivery of products with the commissioning of 70 brand new trucks. Over 1000 state-of-the art trucks are expected at the end of the project.

Customer orientation remains the driving force in the operations of the Company. The company has trained a dynamic Sales force with customer satisfaction as their priority in order to serve customers better. In addition to this, new depots have been opened across the nation (from 6 to 19 depots ),while an e-collection service, which will aid easier business transaction for customers has been launched.

APPOINTMENTS

The Company announced the appointment of two new board members: Mr. Joseph Hudson who is the Regional Vice President, Human Resources and Organization, Lafarge Sub-Saharan Africa and Mr. Adebayo Jimoh, the Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Odu'a Group of Companies.

Lafarge Wapco Bags Cican’s Awards

Thu, 19 May 2011 09:33:39 GMT

Lagos, Nigeria, May 19, 2011: Lafarge Cement WAPCO Nigeria Plc, a leading cement manufacturing company has been awarded the "Most Resilient Manufacturing outfit" in Nigeria and its brand, Elephant Cement, the "Most Consistent Brand" by the Commerce and Industry Correspondents Association of Nigeria (CICAN).

The company bagged these awards at the 2011 Crystal Nite of Excellence of the Association held at Sheraton Hotel and Towers, Ikeja, Lagos.

According to the President of CICAN, Mr. Babatola Adeyemi, the award is in recognition and appreciation of the company‘s relentless contributions to the development of the built industry and the nation at large since its establishment in 1960. "Lafarge WAPCO is foremost cement company that has acquired strategic presence in the business environment with visible and enduring legacy. It is the first cement manufacturing company with two unique brands: Elephant Cement, which is adorned today for its consistency for past six decades and Elephant Supaset.

While giving the awards to the company representatives, the Director General of Standard Organization of Nigeria (SON), Dr. Joseph Odumodu declared that Lafarge WAPCO and Elephant Cement has become a household name in the building Industry in Nigeria and commended the company for developing innovative product like Supaset Cement which he confirmed as the best fast setting cement with high later strength so far product in the country.

"I want to assure you that Supaset Cement has been endorsed by Standard Organization of Nigeria as the best quality cement for the block makers and the construction industry. It has passed through our various laboratory tests and is okay for use" ,Dr .Odumodu said.

Lafarge WAPCO Appreciates Customers

Thu, 24 Feb 2011 11:30:05 GMT

Lagos: February 24, 2011: Lafarge Cement WAPCO Nigeria Plc, a leading Cement company has re- emphasized the importance of customer orientation as its driving force.

The company demonstrated its appreciation to customers through its annual Customers' Award Ceremony held at Pool Terrace of Owena International Motels, Akure, Ondo, State. The Award Ceremony, which is in its sixth year running is designed to appreciate the support enjoyed from its numerous customers nationwide and avail the customers of the company's initiatives aimed at serving them better.

The Chairman, Board of Directors of Lafarge WAPCO, Chief Olusegun Osunkeye (OON) who described the award as "celebration of Kings" said it is an event designed to reward and consolidate on the mutual relationship between the company and the customers.

Continuing, Chief Osunkeye said the company is committed to remain a true leader in the Nigeria Cement Industry. "For us, leadership is not only about size, it is the positive influence that we bring to our market, our industry and our nation at large. The way we do business and our values will continue to distinguish us: Health and Safety, Customer Focus, Innovation, People Development and Corporate Governance.' While congratulating the award winners, Chief Osunkeye solicited for the continuous support and loyalty of the customers.

In his remarks, the company's Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Samy Abdelkader said that customer satisfaction is very key to the organization and the company will leave no stone unturned to achieve this.

According to him, ‘Customer orientation remains the driving force of our operations in Lafarge WAPCO. To optimize sales, we have re-evolved dynamic Sales force with customer satisfaction as their priority in order to serve you better. In addition to this, we have equally optimized our depot strategy with opening of seventeen (17) new depots across the nation .In addition to this, we have improved on our service delivery and customers can transact business with ease with our newly introduced e- collection service".

Abdelkader equally informed that as part of the Lafarge Group, the world's leading Cement Company, Lafarge WAPCO benefits immensely from the Group's commitment to Research and Development (R&D) which is aimed at innovation and understanding customers' needs. He informed that in 2010, Lafarge committed 150 million euros to Research and Development.

Speaking on the company's two brands, Abdelkader informed that "Supaset Cement, a new product that combines the unique values of early strength and latter strength has become the bride of the block makers and other segment of the construction sector, while our flagship product, Elephant Cement which recently marked 50 years of production, remains the preferred cement brand for the discerning in the Nigerian construction industry for its power, maturity, resilience, durability and reliability".

This year's award will see the customers smiling home with tangible gifts for various categories of the award such as: Highest National Volume buyer, 2nd Best National Volume buyer, 3rd Best National Volume buyer, Highest Volume buyer per region, Highest Volume buyer in each territory, Loyalty Award, Highest Volume Growth by Region, Corporate Patronage, Highest Volume in New Market, Best Retailer, Recognition Award for 60 top Distributors, and Top 3 Frontline Contractors.

Lafarge WAPCO Enhances Logistics System With New Trucks

Fri, 18 Feb 2011 11:37:21 GMT

Lagos Nigeria: February 18, 2011: In line with its commitment to satisfy its numerous customers through the availablity of its products nationwide, Lafarge Cement WAPCO Nigeria Plc, a leading cement manufacturing company in Nigeria has flagged off its Logistics Project with the planned acquisition of over 1000 state-of-the-art trucks to enhance its logistic system.

The company flagged off the logistic project at its Ewekoro Plant where 75 brand new Mark trucks were commissioned by the Ogun State Commissioner for Commerce and Industry,Omooba Gbenga Osinowo.

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Lafarge WAPCO, Mr. Samy Abdelkader said,‘our newly acquired trucks will improve the efficiency and effectiveness of our company's logistics network of distribution nationwide as we are gearing towards the commissioning of 2.5 metric tons plant(Lakatabu) at the end of second quarter of this year'

Mr. Abdelkader added that the new logistics arrangement is in partnership with some reputable banks and transport companies notably: TSL limited, Rembam Nigeria Limited, K.K Logistics, ABC Transport Company and Safe Wheelers Ltd.

Continuing, Mr. Abdelkader stated that ‘in addition to the improvement of its haulage system, the company's activities are geared towards its strong commitment to the government policy of backward integration which emphasizes availability of cement'

Transport Safety was a major highlight of the commissioning ceremony as the Managing Director advised the drivers to be safety conscious while carrying out their duties. ‘Safety is our number one priority in Lafarge WAPCO as we lay emphasis on the safety of our people and stakeholders. Remember, our concern is: whether you are a transporter or driver, our goal is that you get back home safe after your business trip. Our target on safety is zero road fatality to you and all other road users wherever our cement is distributed nationwide'.

Commending Lafarge WAPCO for its giant stride at improving the logistics and delivery system of its products, Omooba Gbenga Osinowo said ‘the multiplier effect of the new initiative will be of immense benefit to the citizens of the state and the nation at large'. He called on other corporate organistions in the state to emulate the company in the areas of corporate social responsibilty as he described the company as ‘a responsible corporate citizen'

In his remark, the Head of Supply Chain Division, Mr kola Olowokere, said ‘our company's enhanced logistics system initiative will go a long way to ameliorate the challenges faced in the past in distributing the our products to customer'

It will be recalled that the Lafarge WAPCO has also shown its commitment to support the Federal Government vision to revitalize the rail system by making substantial investments internally to ensure its products can be hauled through the country's rail network. Indeed, a sizeable tonnage of Elephant Cement has been moved by rail from the company's plant in the past three months.

The Lafarge WAPCO has equally enhanced availability of its products with the increase of its sales depots nationwide and an e-collection process to ensure fast delivery of its products.

Experts Profers Solutions to Incessant Building Collapse In Nigeria

Thu, 09 Dec 2010 14:49:52 GMT

Industry Experts have proffered solutions to the incessant cases of building collapse in the country. The experts listed among others solutions, the need for the Federal Government to enact the National Building Code, put in place a Construction Industry Commission, training and retraining of building practitioners and strict adherence to quality building materials according to specifications.

The solutions were contained in a communiqué issued at the end of a national dialogue session on Collapsed Buildings organised by Lafarge Cement WAPCO Nigeria Plc, in Abuja recently. The theme of the dialogue was "Building Safe, Living Safe: Curbing The Menace of Collapsed Buildings"

The Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, University of Lagos, Prof. M.A Salau posited that the general public has a major role in preventing the incidence of building collapse.

He said further actions are necessary on the part of government regulatory bodies to establish the measures proffered and also ensure their enforcement throughout the construction industry in Nigeria.

The Honourable Minister of Lands, Housing and Urban Development, RT. Hon. Nduese Essien, said Government is set to halt construction failures and bring to book, all those violating laid down procedures for construction activities.

In his address, the Chairman, House Committee on Housing & Habitat, Hon. Abubakar Garba Matazu, noted that the first thing that should be done is to look at the national building code and enact a legislation that will prescribe very serious punishments for defaulters who put up building structures without making use of professionals and quality materials. Hon Matazu however promised to facilitate the passage of this bill.

Also speaking at the event, The DG of Standard Organisation of Nigeria, Dr. John Akanya gave assurance that the organisation will fulfill its role of ensuring that only acceptable high quality building materials either locally produced or imported gets to the market.

On what informed the dialogue, The Chairman of Lafarge Cement WAPCO Nigeria Plc, Chief Segun Osunkeye said there is a need to address this issue which requires immediate and strict measures to ensure safer shelter is achieve for all. He said the subject is relevant than ever as even globally, quality shelter has been listed as part of the millennium development goals.

Osunkeye further informed that" As a company who has, for the past 50 years been at the forefront of cement manufacturing and provision of safe, comfortable housing for millions of Nigerians, we have taken it upon ourselves to continue to play a vital role in the society. As a world-class organization, we will continue challenging ourselves to move to the forefront as a true leader in our market and industry."

In the same vein, the Managing Director/CEO of the company, Samy Abdelkader said as industry leader, it gives them profound joy to be at the forefront of contributing to the improvement of the society as a responsible corporate citizen.

"We at Lafarge is proud of being at the centre of this initiative and request you all to join us in the effort to attack and solve this problem that besets building and construction in Nigeria"

Continuing, Abdelkader said, "our concern for Health and Safety is a major reason why we have incorporated this programme as part of the activities lined up to mark our 50^th anniversary of cement production. As many of you may be aware, Health and Safety is Lafarge's first Business priority. Health and Safety is a commitment that has gradually become a way of life for the Lafarge family as we believe that Health and Safety are core values that must be incorporated into all aspects of our business"

The experts observed that the incidence of building collapse has become more prevalent in the last 10 years, incidentally at a time when more qualified professionals abound in the country.

The National Dialogue on Building Collapse which was organised by Lafarge Cement WAPCO Nigeria Plc is intended to identify, reflect and find solutions to this problem and promote safety and qualitative housing for Nigerians.

Experts anchor their discussions on the building collapse in major cities of Lagos, Abuja and Port Harcourt in which many lives were lost and several people injured.

Minister Commends Lafarge WAPCO For Leading Industry Safety

Tue, 30 Nov 2010 14:48:44 GMT

Lagos, Nigeria, Friday, November 30, 2010.The Minister of Lands, Housing & Urban Development, Rt. Honourable Nduese Essien has commended Lafarge Cement WAPCO Plc for being socially responsible.

Hon. Essien made this remarks during the National Dialogue on Collapsed Building organised by the leading cement manufacturer in Abuja recently.

A visibly impressed Essien expressed his pleasure ‘’that the company has taken it upon itself to bring together key stakeholders in the built industry to find solutions to one of the problems that has ravaged the built sector and embarrassed the nation as a people and a country’’.

“I want to use this medium to extend the warm regards of the Federal Government to the management of Lafarge WAPCO Nigeria Plc for convening this national dialogue. This dialogue will go a long way to portray this company as a genuinely socially responsible organisation”.

He said the company’s initiative “does not come as a surprise as they have been in the production of quality cement for 50 years and therefore not likely to be responsible for building collapse in the country as the issue of building collapse is a recent phenomenon”

According to the minister, all stakeholders in the built sector must now accept their share of responsibility to stop further collapse of buildings in the country as the country can no longer accept the growing threat posed to lives and properties by the activities of criminally –minded builders and developers.

He said what the country needs at this critical moment is the force of courage, an unwavering commitment for the common good, and an undying resolve to do things right. He noted that in this new deal, manufacturers of building materials, block molders, quantity surveyors, architects, builders, engineers, craftsmen and allied professionals must carry out their operations with utmost proficiency and regard for global best standards.

The Minister further said that government cannot solve every problem, and called on everyone to join in the work of remaking our built sector.

Why the National Dialogue on Collapsed Buildings ?

On what informed the dialogue, The Chairman of Lafarge Cement WAPCO Nigeria Plc, Chief Segun Osunkeye said it is important to address this issue which requires immediate and strict measures to ensure that safer shelter is achieved for all. He said the subject is relevant than ever as even globally, quality shelter has been listed as part of the millennium development goals.

Osunkeye further informed that” As a company who has, for the past 50 years been at the forefront of cement manufacturing and provision of safe, comfortable housing for millions of Nigerians, we have taken it upon ourselves to continue to play a vital role in the society. As a world-class organization, we will continue challenging ourselves to move to the forefront as a true leader in our market and industry.”

In the same vein, the Managing Director/CEO of the company, Samy Abdelkader noted that as industry leader, it gives the company profound joy to be at the forefront of contributing to the improvement of the society as a responsible corporate citizen.

“We at Lafarge is proud of being at the centre of this initiative and request you all to join us in the effort to attack and solve this problem that besets building and construction in Nigeria’’

Continuing, Abdelkader said, “our concern for Health and Safety is a major reason why we have incorporated this programme as part of the activities lined up to mark our 50th anniversary of cement production. As many of you may be aware, Health and Safety is Lafarge’s first Business priority. Health and Safety is a commitment that has gradually become a way of life for the Lafarge family as we believe that Health and Safety are core values that must be incorporated into all aspects of our business”

Roll Call :

Present at the national dialogue are the Minister for Lands, Housing & urban Development ,Rt Hon Nduse Essien ; Minister for Commerce & Industry who was represented by Mrs. Dorothy Obi; Chairman, House of representatives Committee on Housing & Habitat, Hon. Abubakar Garba Matazu; Director General of SON, Dr. John Akanya; President Nigeria Institute of Structural Engineers, Eng. Victor Oyenuga. Others include, the Dean, Faculty of Engineering, University of Lagos, Prof. M.A Salau, President, Nigeria Institute of Building(NIOB), Dachollom Dalyop Jambol ;President , Nigerian Society of Engineers(NSE) ;President,Nigerian Institute of Architects(NIA) and other profesional bodies including the Nigerian Institution of Quantity Surveyors(NIQS),Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors(NIES),Nigerian Institute of Suveryor(NIS),Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria(CORBON) and Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria(COREN)

The dialogue was part of activities lined up for the commemoration of the 50th Anniversary celebration of Lafarge Cement WAPCO Nigeria Plc.

Lafarge WAPCO Convenes National Dialogue On Collapsed Buildings

Fri, 05 Nov 2010 15:29:16 GMT

Lafarge Cement WAPCO Nigeria Plc, multinational and manufacturer of Elephant Cement will be organising a National Dialogue to address and profer solutions to the rising cases of collapsed buildings in the country.

With the theme "Building Safe, Living Safe, Curbing the Menance of Collapsed Buildings", it is scheduled to be held at Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja on Thursday, November 25, 2010. The Forum is organised in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Housing, Land and Urban Development and the Federal Ministry of Commerce and industry.

The Company's Head of Communications, Mrs. Temitope Oguntokun, said on this occasion: "The phenomenon of collapsed buildings has been a source of concern to well-meaning Nigerians. As a reputable organisation with top priority for Health and Safety, we consider the organisation of this Forum as our social contribution to the Building Industry and the Nigerian society at large - especially at this memorable landmark of Lafarge WAPCO's 50th Anniversary of Cement production."

The session is targeted at operators within the Building Industry, Regulatory Authorities, Professional Bodies, Artisans, Government, Business Leaders and Multi-Lateral Agencies in Nigeria.

Notable speakers will be available to address critical issues surrounding the incessant collapse of buildings within the country and importantly, develop a framework to stop this unfortunate trend. Speakers at the event include, Engineer Victor Oyenuga, President, Nigeria Institute of Structural Engineers (NISE); Professor Musbau Ajibade Salau, Dean, Faculty of Engineering, University of Lagos;; Dr. John Akanya, Director General, Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON) and Dr. Dachallom Jambol, President, Nigeria Institute of Building (NIOB), amongst other notable discussants.

Lafarge WAPCO Launches Elephant Supaset Cement

Wed, 03 Nov 2010 14:54:41 GMT

Lagos Nigeria: November 3, 2010: Lafarge Cement WAPCO Nigeria Plc, a leading cement manufacturing company in Nigeria today announces the launch of a new product, Elephant Supaset Cement.

Elephant Supaset Cement is a Portland cement specifically formulated as a fast setting cement that meets the requirements of the Block making and Precast segment of the Construction Industry with unique characteristics.

The new product which has passed through extensive field tests with strong support of Lafarge ‘s Group Technical Centre , has also been approved by the Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON).

Annoucing the Launch in Lagos, The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Lafarge WAPCO, Mr Samy Abdelkader said, ‘'Supaset is the result of profound customer research which will satisfy the yarnings of the need for a specialised cement for block makers and precast segment of the industry. It is also a testimony to our commitments to Innovation and leadership in the Nigerian cement market.''

Continuing, he said, ‘'Elephant Supaset combines three key value propositions of Early Setting, Early Strength and the unique Latter Strenght which is a distinguished quality which our brand, Elephant Cement, has been known over the years.''

The launch of Elephant Supaset Cement makes Lafarge WAPCO the only cement company with two unique brands : Elephant Cement, a general purpose cement which marks 50 years of existence and the new product,Supaset Cement, specifically formulated for Block making and Precast segment.

Lafarge WAPCO, being a subsidiary of the Lafarge Group- the world's biggest Cement Manufacturer, continues to focus on Innovation.In this year alone, Lafarge has committed over 150 Million euros to Research and Development(R&D) in various fundamental research at its Technical centers around the world which focuses on the satisfaction of customer requirements and the development of products which are increasingly environmental friendly.

Lafarge WAPCO Celebrates Five Decades of Cement Production

Thu, 14 Oct 2010 14:42:13 GMT

Lagos Nigeria: October 4, 2010: Lafarge Cement WAPCO Nigeria Plc, one of the leading cement manufacturing companies in Nigeria celebrates five decades of being at the forefront of cement manufacturing and sales in Nigeria. Significantly, the company along with the country commemorates 50 years of glorious existence and its continuous contribution to the growth of the Nigerian economy through its brand, Elephant Cement.

Speaking at a media interactive session held at Protea Hotel to announce the company's 50th anniversary, Chief Olusegun Osunkeye, Chairman, Board of Directors said : ‘‘The company is committed to supporting the government in strengthening the nation's economy''. Over the years, it has acquired strategic and visible presence in the business environment with competitive advantage in terms of product quality and consistency of our dear product, Elephant Cement. These and more are what we celebrate at 50. "We will continue to create employment by expanding our production plants and adding value to people's lives".

Lafarge WAPCO has also made tremendous contributions to the availability of cement in this country and nations'industrial scene in general.

The company is confident of not only sustaining, but also hopes to surpass these achievements in the next 50 years. From next year, its capacity will be doubled with the commencement of the Lakatabu Project to increase production from 2.2 metric tons to 4.2 metric tons of cement yearly to enable the company keep up the pace of growth in the construction industry.

In his remark, the Managing Director of Lafarge WAPCO, Mr. Samy Abdelkader, said Elephant Cement has remained the flagship of cement in Nigeria and is symbolized with the strength of an elephant. "Our brand, Elephant Cement which is the celebrant, has not only left traces of its existence, it has made an indelible mark on the building industry and the country"

‘‘Today, our claim to leadership is in the value we bring to our business: commitment to Health and Safety, quality production that has stood the test of times, qualify workforce that we continue to develop, returns on investment to our investors and our care to the communities around us. I am confident that we will continue to maintain these values in the next 50 years''.

As part of the company's efforts to ensure that Elephant cement is available and affordable to all, the company has increased its efforts in customer service through e- collection process facilities to ensure fast delivery of its products within 24 hours. This is coupled with an increase in its sales depots nationwide.

It should be noted that Lafarge Cement WAPCO Nigeria PLC formerly West African Portland Cement Company (WAPCO) was established in 1959 with its first factory in Ewekoro, Ogun State. The company lighted its first kiln to commence production on December 3rd, 1960 in Ewekoro.