Dangote Cement Plc has reported a strong financial performance for the first half of 2026, posting double-digit growth in revenue, profit and sales volumes, driven by improved operational efficiency, stronger export activity and increased demand across its key markets.
Gatekeepers News reports that according to the company’s unaudited financial results for the six months ended June 30, 2026, group revenue rose 21.4 per cent year-on-year to N2.51 trillion, while earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) increased 25.8 per cent to N1.19 trillion, translating to an EBITDA margin of 47.3 per cent.
The Nigerian business remained the company’s largest earnings contributor, with Nigeria EBITDA rising 28.4 per cent to N1.09 trillion and the domestic EBITDA margin improving to 60.1 per cent.
Profit after tax climbed 22.7 per cent to N638.5 billion, while earnings per share increased 24.3 per cent to N38.22, reflecting improved returns to shareholders.
Dangote Cement also maintained a strong financial position, ending the period with a net cash balance of N215.2 billion, as its cash holdings exceeded total borrowings.
Sales Volumes and Exports Rise
Operationally, the company recorded stronger demand across its African operations, with group cement sales volumes increasing 11.8 per cent to 14.9 million tonnes during the review period.
Its regional export strategy also gained momentum as cement and clinker exports from Nigeria surged 62.3 per cent to 1.1 million tonnes.
The company said it completed 20 clinker shipments to Ghana, Cameroon and Côte d’Ivoire during the first six months of the year.
Dangote Cement also reported lower production costs in Nigeria, attributing the improvement to changes in its energy mix and continued investments aimed at boosting operational efficiency across its African businesses.
To improve logistics, the company commissioned a mobile refuelling unit at its Okpella plant and deployed 300 compressed natural gas (CNG) trucks in Tanzania to support cleaner and more cost-effective transportation.
CEO Highlights Growth Strategy
Commenting on the results, Group Chief Executive Officer Arvind Pathak said the company’s performance reflected sustained commercial momentum, higher sales volumes and disciplined execution despite a challenging operating environment.
He noted that Dangote Cement’s strong cash position provides sufficient financial flexibility to fund future expansion projects while maintaining prudent capital allocation.
Pathak said the continued growth in exports validates the company’s regional strategy, with increasing demand from neighbouring West African countries strengthening Nigeria’s position as a major supplier of cement and clinker.
He also disclosed that construction of the company’s 6 million tonnes per annum (Mtpa) Itori cement plant is at an advanced stage and remains on track for completion before the end of 2026.
Once commissioned, the Itori facility is expected to increase Dangote Cement’s production capacity, enhance its export capabilities and support its long-term target of raising installed production capacity to 80 million tonnes per annum by 2030.
Looking ahead, the company expressed confidence that favourable market conditions, ongoing investments and its continued focus on operational excellence and cost efficiency will sustain growth and deliver long-term value for shareholders.
