How Much Is Block in Nigeria? A Complete Guide to Building Material Costs

Current Prices of Blocks in Nigeria

The cost of a block in Nigeria varies significantly depending on its size, type, and location. As of April 2025, we’ve identified the following price ranges based on extensive market surveys:

• 6-Inch Hollow Blocks: These lightweight blocks, ideal for non-load-bearing walls, range from ₦400 to ₦500 per unit. Prices tend to be higher in urban centers like Lagos and Abuja.
• 6-Inch Solid Blocks: Known for their strength, these blocks cost between ₦600 and ₦700 per unit, favored for structural stability in foundations and load-bearing walls.
• 9-Inch Hollow Blocks: Commonly used for external walls, they are priced at ₦650 to ₦800 per unit, with variations based on regional demand.
• 9-Inch Solid Blocks: These robust blocks, used in heavy-duty construction, range from ₦750 to ₦900 per unit.
• 5-Inch Blocks: Less common but useful for partitions, these cost ₦350 to ₦450 per unit.

These prices reflect averages across Nigeria, with metropolitan areas typically commanding the higher end of the spectrum due to increased demand and operational costs.

Types of Blocks Available in Nigeria

We categorize blocks into several types, each serving distinct purposes in construction. Understanding these variations helps determine their cost and application:

• Hollow Sandcrete Blocks: Made from a mix of cement, sand, and water, these blocks feature cavities that reduce weight and improve insulation. A 6-inch hollow block averages ₦450, while a 9-inch version costs around ₦700.
• Solid Sandcrete Blocks: Dense and durable, these lack cavities and are used where strength is paramount. A 6-inch solid block is approximately ₦650, and a 9-inch solid block reaches ₦850.
• Decorative Blocks: Used for aesthetic purposes, such as fencing or facades, these range from ₦1,000 to ₦5,000 per unit, depending on design complexity and material (e.g., glass or colored concrete).
• Lightweight Blocks: Often made with industrial byproducts like fly ash, these cost ₦500 to ₦700 for a 6-inch size, offering a cost-effective alternative for specific projects.

Regional Price Differences Across Nigeria

Nigeria’s diverse geography and economic conditions lead to notable price disparities. We’ve mapped out costs for a 9-inch hollow block across key regions:

• Lagos: ₦750 to ₦900, driven by high demand and transportation costs from production hubs.
• Abuja: ₦700 to ₦850, reflecting the capital’s construction boom and proximity to northern sand sources.
• Port Harcourt: ₦720 to ₦880, influenced by logistics challenges and coastal import reliance.
• Kano: ₦650 to ₦750, lower due to local production and abundant raw materials.
• Ibadan: ₦680 to ₦800, a middle ground between rural affordability and urban demand.

These regional differences underscore the importance of location when budgeting for construction projects.

Read also: How Much Is BUA Cement in Nigeria?

Factors Influencing Block Prices in Nigeria

Several elements dictate the cost of blocks in Nigeria. We’ve pinpointed the most significant drivers:

• Raw Material Costs: Cement prices, hovering between ₦9,500 and ₦12,000 per 50kg bag, and sharp sand, at ₦30,000 to ₦45,000 per 20-ton tipper, directly impact block production costs.
• Location: Proximity to raw material sources reduces transportation expenses, lowering prices in northern states compared to the south.
• Demand and Supply: High construction activity in cities like Lagos increases demand, pushing prices upward.
• Production Method: Machine-vibrated blocks, deemed higher quality, cost more (e.g., ₦700 for a 9-inch hollow) than hand-molded ones (₦650).
• Economic Conditions: Inflation and naira depreciation elevate import costs for cement additives, trickling down to block prices.

Where to Buy Blocks in Nigeria

We’ve identified reliable purchasing options to ensure quality and value:

• Local Block Industries: Found in every state, these offer fresh blocks at competitive rates. In Kano, a 6-inch hollow block might cost ₦400, while in Lagos, it’s closer to ₦500.
• Building Material Markets: Mile 12 (Lagos), Sabon Gari (Kano), and Dei-Dei (Abuja) provide bulk options, with 9-inch hollow blocks averaging ₦700.
• Online Platforms: Jumia and Jiji list blocks from verified sellers. A 6-inch solid block on Jumia might be ₦650, often with delivery included.
• Direct from Manufacturers: Companies like Lafarge or Dangote supply raw materials, but some partner with block makers for wholesale deals, reducing costs to ₦600 per 9-inch block in bulk.

For the best prices, we recommend comparing quotes and buying during off-peak seasons, such as the rainy months when construction slows.

Cost Estimation for Construction Projects

To illustrate practical application, we’ve calculated block costs for a standard project:

• 3-Bedroom Flat: Requires approximately 3,500 blocks. Using 9-inch hollow blocks at ₦750 each, the total cost is ₦2,625,000.
• 10×10-Foot Wall: Needs about 100 blocks. With 6-inch hollow blocks at ₦450 each, the cost is ₦45,000, excluding mortar and labor.

These estimates help builders plan budgets accurately, factoring in additional expenses like cement and sand.

Read also: How Much is a Bundle of Roofing Sheets in Nigeria? 2025 Guide

Tips for Getting the Best Value

We offer these strategies to optimize your block purchase:

• Bulk Buying: Purchasing 1,000 blocks or more often secures discounts, dropping the price of a 9-inch hollow block from ₦800 to ₦750.
• Local Sourcing: Buy from nearby industries to cut transportation costs, especially in rural areas.
• Quality Check: Ensure blocks meet the Standard Organisation of Nigeria’s minimum compressive strength (e.g., 3.45 N/mm² for 9-inch blocks) to avoid structural issues.
• Negotiation: Haggle with vendors, particularly in markets, where prices can drop by ₦50 per block.

The Broader Context of Block Costs in 2025

Nigeria’s construction sector in April 2025 reflects economic pressures, with block prices rising over 200% since 2023, per industry reports. We attribute this to cement price hikes and fuel costs affecting transportation. Yet, blocks remain a cost-effective choice compared to imported bricks, supporting local economies through job creation in block-making industries.

Conclusion: Making Informed Block Purchases

Understanding how much a block costs in Nigeria empowers you to plan construction projects with precision. From ₦400 for a 6-inch hollow block to ₦900 for a 9-inch solid block, prices reflect a dynamic market shaped by location, materials, and demand. We encourage exploring local markets, leveraging bulk deals, and staying updated via platforms like Jumia Nigeria to secure the best value. As Nigeria’s building landscape evolves, informed buying ensures durability and affordability in every structure.