From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja

Executive Director of Kogi Built Environment and Building Materials Exhibitions, Engr Bayode Oladipo, has decried alarming cost of building in Nigeria as a result of sharp increase in prices of building materials.
Engr. Oladipo who described the development as worrisome, called for the federal government quick intervention to tackle the problem.
He made the call at the close of the building materials exhibitions held in Lokoja, between 10th-12th December, 2024.
He said that the call became necessary inview of the current economic hardships being faced by Nigerians
He commended the impact of the West African Ceramics Company, Ajaokuta, on the economic life and wellbeing of the people of Kogi state and Nigeria in general.
He said that the activities of the West African Ceramics have served as a source of relief for the people of Kogi state in the face of the current economic challenges in Nigeria, particularly in job creation and socioeconomic advancement.
According to him “BEBM used this forum to present to the public, a book titled ‘The Impact of West African Ceramics Company on Nigeria’s Growth and Development’ packaged to showcase its benefit to the people.
“At this period of economic hardships, one of the ways out is to encourage made in Nigeria goods. The West African Ceramics tiles are home made products that should be adequately patronize by Nigerians
“We are proud that West African Ceramics tiles have been part of our exhibitions since 2018 to expose their relevance or value as made in Nigeria products. BEBM had demeed it necessary to package a book on the impact of the company towards the development of Kogi and Nigeria at large” the Convener disclosed
He lauded federal government for its support to local production as a way of revamping the nation’s battered economy
He also called on government to extend tax waiver to West African Ceramics tiles to enhance their production, increase their export and other reliefs.


