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FG threatens to open border for cement importation

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The federal government has threatened to possibly open the borders to cement importation if Nigerian cement manufacturers refuse to reduce the price of the commodity in the country.

 

Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc Ahmed Dangiwa, who made the declaration said key input materials for cement production such as limestone, clay, silica sand, and gypsum sourced within our borders, should not be dollar-rated.

 

Dangiwa made this known on Tuesday, February 20, in Abuja at an emergency meeting held with cement and building materials manufacturers. He said the price of gas that manufacturers are using as an excuse should not be because gas is a raw material found within the country and the excuse of an increase in mining equipment should not come up because equipment bought by these manufacturers has been used for decades and not just purchased every day.

 

The minister said the border was closed to the importation of cement to help local manufacturers but if the government decides to open it back for mass importation, prices of cement would crash and local manufacturers would be gravely affected.

 

Dangiwa who called on the manufacturers to be more patriotic said BUA cement for instance has been willing and is still willing as at the last time he spoke with them to crash the price of their cement, lower than the N7000, N8000 agreed by the manufacturers and he sees no reason why the others should not do same.

 

The minister in response to the manufacturers said: “The challenges you speak of, many countries are facing the same challenges and some even worse than that but as patriotic citizens, we have to rally around whenever there is a crisis to change the situation.

 

“The gas price you spoke of, we know that we produce gas in the country the only thing you can say is that maybe it is not enough. Even if you say about 50 percent of your production cost is spent on gas prices, we still produce gas in Nigeria it’s just that some of the manufacturers take advantage of the situation. As for the mining equipment that you mentioned, you buy equipment and it takes years and you are still using it.

 

“The time you bought it maybe it was at a lower price but because now the dollar is high you are using it as an excuse. Honestly, we have to sit down and look at this critically. The demand and supply should be good for you because the government stopped the importation of cement, they stopped the importation in order to empower you to produce more.

 

“Otherwise if the government opens the border for mass importation of cement, the price would crash but you would have no business to do and at the same time the employment generation would go down. So these are the kinds of things you have to look at, the efforts of government in ensuring things go well.”

 

The minister also put the blame on the Cement Manufactures of Nigeria for not regulating the price of cement in the country because earlier, the Executive Secretary of the Association, Salako James had informed the minister that the association does not discuss or determine the price of individual companies but are only made aware of prices from the market like every Nigerian.

 

Dangiwa said the ministry would be setting up a committee which would be comprised of representatives of each cement manufacturer in the country, its association, and the government to fashion out modalities to resolve the problem of high price of cement in the country.

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16 large US cities where house prices are set to soar the most in 2025

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Phoenix, AZ
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Homeowners and prospective buyers can expect to see housing prices soar to unprecedented heights in 16 cities across the US, analysts have predicted.

House prices are expected to rise by 3.7 per cent across America next year, which is comparable to the rate they’ve climbed since 2012, Realtor.com has forecasted.

However, forecasters with the real estate website have also predicted that 16 large metropolitan areas will see even higher rates of home appreciation in 2025.

Florida has dominated the forecast with five cities in the sunshine state expected to have price growth rates in the double digits.

But the southwest region – which includes Arizona, Colorado, and Nevada – of the country will get the highest boom in housing prices, according to the forecast.

Phoenix is expected to see the most significant growth in nation in 2025, with analysts predicting a 13.2 per cent price growth estimate, followed by Colorado Springs and Tucson as 12.7 per cent and 12.4 per cent, respectively.

Despite the anticipated home price growth, analysts predict that mortgages rates will keep mortgage payments relatively unchanged in the coming year.

The markets, however, are anticipating lower tax rates and higher economic growth under the incoming Trump Administration, which forecasters predict could result in an increase in disposable household income.

Analysts also note that if the country has both income growth and lower tax rates, houses could become more affordable in 2025 than they were in previous years.

Florida has dominated the 2025 housing price forecast with five cities in the sunshine state expected to have price growth rates in the double digits. Pictured: Lido Key Beach in Sarasota

 

But the southwest region – which includes Arizona , Colorado , and Nevada – of the country will get the highest boom in housing prices, according to the forecast. Phoenix is expected to see the most significant growth in nation in 2025

 

A majority of the metropolises that are expected to see a housing price boom next year saw some of the most dramatic increases between 2020 and 2022.

Preston Zeller, Chief Growth Operator at BatchService, a company specializing in real estate data and insights, told DailyMail.com that housing prices soared during this two-year period of ‘low rates and high moving rates from other states’.

Consequentially, these areas saw ‘more of a correction’ when rates started going up in 2022 and 2023, he added.

‘Boom/bust cities like Las Vegas and Phoenix have weathered particularly well due to far West Coast migration patterns to neighboring states,’ Zeller said, adding: ‘Of course Boise and surrounding areas have felt this as well.’

He urged home buyers ‘get their finances in gear right now’, warning that the start of the year may be slow, but by spring and summer one can expect a ‘mad dash for purchasing’.

However, Robert Washington, a Florida-based broker at Savvy Buyers Realty, says he does not expect Florida houses to rise as drastically as forecasters predict.

‘I think we will see a steady increase in prices in our area, but I don’t believe they will soar by any means,’ Washington – whose territory includes three Florida markets that made the Realtor.com list – told DailyMail.com.

Citing how housing prices in the area have ‘come down’ in recent months, Washington predicted prices will increase, but only by a range of 3 to 5 per cent.

‘Demand does already feel like it is picking up leading into the new year. Some of the hurricane stigma feels like it is beginning to fade which certainly helps,’ he admitted.

Washington added: ‘If mortgage rates drop throughout 2025, I think we will see sustained buying activity with modest price increases.’

Here are the 16 cities where Realtor.com analysts expect home prices to soar next year: 

1. Phoenix, AZ

Phoenix, the capital city of Arizona, is forecast to have the largest increase in home appreciation in 2025. Realtor.com analysts estimate the city will see a price growth of 13.2 per cent and a sales growth of 12.2 per cent

 

Phoenix, the capital city of Arizona, is forecast to have the largest increase in home appreciation in 2025.

Realtor.com analysts estimate the city will see a price growth of 13.2 per cent and a sales growth of 12.2 per cent.

Phoenix is the most populous city in Arizona and is home to 1.65million people, according to latest census data.

It is known for its year-round sunshine and warm temperatures and boasts a booming job market as well. It’s job market boomed at nearly 12 percent growth since 2019 and became an attractive migration spot for those coming from California, according to a recent report by The National Association of Realtors.

Phoenix also boasts a relatively low cost of livingas well as housing affordability, with the average home value sitting at $414,977, according to the report.

2. Colorado Springs, CO

Analysts expect Colorado Springs to see a price growth of 12.7 per cent and sales growth of 27.1 per cent in 2025, according to Realtor.com

 

Analysts expect Colorado Springs to see a price growth of 12.7 per cent and sales growth of 27.1 per cent in 2025, according to Realtor.com.

Colorado Springs, a city situated at the eastern foot of the Rocky Mountains, currently has a median housing sale price of just under half-a-million dollars.

Realtor.com predicts the price will double within the decade, with the city just an hour south from Denver.

The city, which in 2023 recorded a population of 488,664 people, is known for its hiking trails and stunning parks, including Pike National Forest.

3. Tucson, AZ

Realtor.com analysts predict Tucson will see an estimated 12.4 per cent growth in home prices next year. They also expected sales growth to rise by 12.5 per cent

 

Tucson is the second-largest city in Arizona and his home to 542,629 people, according to 2020 US Census data.

Realtor.com analysts predict Tucson will see an estimated 12.4 per cent growth in home prices next year. They also expected sales growth to rise by 12.5 per cent.

Like Phoenix, which is situated more than 100 miles away, Tucson has become a popular relocation destination due to its nice weather, beautiful desert landscapes and growth in industries like aerospace and defense.

The city is also known for its affordable cost of living, diverse culture, arts scene and outdoor leisure activities.

Housing costs in Tucson are also around 25 per cent cheaper than the national average, according to certified financial planner Andrew Latham.

4. Boise City, ID

Boise, Idaho will see a home price growth of 12.3 per cent and sales growth of 2 per cent in 2025, Realtor.com has forecasted

 

Boise is the capital city of Idaho and home to 235,421 people, according to population data recorded last year.

The city will see a home price growth of 12.3 per cent and sales growth of 2 per cent in 2025, Realtor.com has forecasted.

The city, which is home to Boise State University, is known for its parks, hiking trails, hot springs, rock climbing and outdoor activities, including skiing and river sports.

Boise, touted for its relatively low cost of living, also offers residents cultural experiences, including museums, shopping, and its arts and culinary scenes.

5. Las Vegas, NV

Analysts estimate that housing prices in Las Vegas will grow by 12.3 per cent in 2025 and that sales will grow by 5.5 per cent

 

Las Vegas is the most populous city in Nevada and home to 660,929 residents. The city is internationally renowned for its resorts and casinos.

In addition to its shopping, fine dining, and entertainment offerings, Las Vegas earned its ‘Sin City’ nickname due to the prevalence of money crimes, prostitution, and violence in the city.

Las Vegas has benefited from the same west coast migration patterns as Phoenix and Realtor.com analysts expect that growth to continue in the new year.

They estimate that housing prices will grow by 12.3 per cent in 2025 and that sales will grow by 5.5 per cent.

6. Orlando, FL

Orlando, located in Florida, is expected to see house prices grow by 12.1 per cent in 2025, according to Realtor.com’s forecast. The city will also see home sales grow by an estimated 15.2 per cent

 

Orlando, located in Florida, is expected to see house prices grow by 12.1 per cent in 2025, according to Realtor.com’s forecast.

The city, which had a population of 307,573 at the 2020 census, will also see home sales grow by an estimated 15.2 per cent.

Orlando is home to more than a dozen theme parks, most notably being Walt Disney World which is comprised of several parks.

Universal Studios is also a popular tourist destination, offering visitors access to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

7. Ogden, UT

The mountainous town of Ogden, Utah is located just north of Salt Lake City and home to a population of 87,267 people. Realtor.com has estimated that house prices in Ogden will grow by 11.8 per cent next year, with sales expected to rise by 2.2 per cent

 

The mountainous town of Ogden, Utah is located just north of Salt Lake City – the state capital – and home to a population of 87,267 people.

Realtor.com has estimated that house prices in Ogden will grow by 11.8 per cent next year, with sales expected to rise by 2.2 per cent.

Ogden has been dubbed a ‘gateway’ to popular ski resorts including Snowbasin, Powder Mountain and Nordic Valley.

Visitors can experience hands-on history at Ogden’s George S. Eccles Dinosaur Park, which features life-size dinosaur models and a paleontology lab.

The city is also home to multiple museums and historic Prohibition-era speakeasies that are now popular shopping and dining hubs.

8. Tampa, FL

Housing costs have been on the rise for several years in Tampa, with Realtor.com now expecting prices to grow again this year by 11.8 per cent. Analysts also predict sales growth rates to rise by 9.1 per cent

 

Tampa is situated along Florida’s Gulf Cost and despite being a major business center, is known for its museums, cultural offerings and access to multiple beaches.

The city had an estimated population of 403,364 in 2023, according to census data, and offers residents a cost of living that is 3 per cent lower than the national average.

The sunshine state, in addition to its warm weather, appeals to Americans looking to lower their annual tax liability, as it is one of the few states that does not impose income tax at the state level.

Housing costs have been on the rise for several years in Tampa, with Realtor.com now expecting prices to grow again this year by 11.8 per cent.

Analysts also predict sales growth rates to rise by 9.1 per cent.

9. Deltona/Daytona Beach, FL

Daytona Beach, which is situated on Florida’s Atlantic coast, is expected to see house prices rise by 11.5 per cent in 2025, according to Realtor.com

 

Daytona Beach, which is situated on Florida’s Atlantic coast, is expected to see house prices rise by 11.5 per cent in 2025, according to Realtor.com.

Forecasters have also predicated house sales to grow by 7.2 per cent.

Daytona Beach has a population of 82,485 people.

The city, which has been dubbed a popular spring break destination, is also known for its annual  Daytona 500 NASCAR race.

10. Memphis, TN

Forecasters predict that house prices in Memphis, Tennessee will grow by 10.5 per cent in 2025, according to Realtor.com. They also expect sales to rise by 8.3 per cent

 

Forecasters predict that house prices in Memphis, Tennessee will grow by 10.5 per cent in 2025, according to Realtor.com. They also expect sales to rise by 8.3 per cent.

Memphis, which is situated on the Mississippi River, is known for its influential blues, soul and rock ‘n’ roll musicians, including Elvis Presley, B.B. King and Johnny Cash.

The city is home to 618,639 residents and a popular tourist destination, with many music lovers coming to the area to visit Presley’s Graceland mansion.

11. Sarasota, FL

Realtor.com has predicted that home prices in Sarasota, Florida will increase by 10.4 per cent next year, with sales expecting to grow by 3.2 per cent

 

Sarasota is located on the Gulf Coast of the sunshine state and home to an estimated 57,602 people, according to 2020 census data.

The state’s population has climbed over the last decade, having grown from 51,917 at the 2010 census.

Like other coastal cities in Florida, Sarasota offers the appeal of warm weather, beaches and numerous cultural institutions.

Realtor.com has predicted that home prices in Sarasota will increase by 10.4 per cent next year, with sales expecting to grow by 3.2 per cent.

12. Lakeland, FL

Realtor.com analysts predict a house price growth of 10.3 per cent in Lakeland, Florida next year, with sales rising by 10.6 per cent.

 

Lakeland, Florida is located 36 miles east of Tampa and 55.5 miles west of Orlando.

The city is home to 122,264 residents, according to recent census data, and is bets known for its many lakes.

Florida Southern College is located in Lakeland and the Detroit Tigers also conduct their spring training at a facility in the city.

Realtor.com analysts predict a house price growth of 10.3 per cent in Lakeland next year, with sales rising by 10.6 per cent.

13. Atlanta, GA

Atlanta is the capital of Georgia and the state’s most populous city. Realtor.com expects house prices to grow by 10.2 per cent in 2025, with sales estimating to grow by 15.1 per cent

 

Atlanta is the capital of Georgia and the most populous city in the state with 510,823 residents, according to the last US Census.

The metropolis is home to several businesses, including Coca Cola, has one of the largest aquarium in the country, and is headquarters to CNN.

Realtor.com expects the city’s house prices to grow by 10.2 per cent in 2025, with sales estimating to grow by 15.1 per cent.

Atlanta played an important roles in both the Civil War and the 1960s Civil Rights Movement and is home to the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site.

14. Austin, TX

Realtor.com predicts that house costs in Austin, Texas will rise by 10.2 per cent in 2025. Forecasters have also predicted sales growth of 14.5 per cent

 

Realtor.com predicts that house costs in Austin, Texas will rise by 10.2 per cent in 2025. Forecasters have also predicted sales growth of 14.5 per cent.

Austin, the capital of Texas, is home to 979,882 residents, according to recent census data.

The city is home to the University of Texas’ flagship campus and is best known for its eclectic live-music scene, including the annual South by Southwest festival.

Austin is a popular destination for hiking, biking, swimming and boating. Formula One has also hosted the United States Grand Prix just south of the city.

15. Durham, NC

Houses in Durham, North Carolina are expected to become 10.1 per cent more expensive in 2025, according to Realtor.com. Analysts at the firm also predict house sales to grow by 14.1 per cent

 

Houses in Durham, North Carolina are expected to become 10.1 per cent more expensive in 2025, according to Realtor.com.

Analysts at the firm also predict house sales to grow by 14.1 per cent.

Durham, recorded a population of 283,506 in the 2020 census, making it the fourth-most populous city in North Carolina.

It is best known for its science and technology companies, as well as its educational institutions.

16. San Antonio, TX

House appreciation is expected to rise to 10 per cent in San Antonio next year, according to Realtor.com. Home sales in the popular Texas city are also expected to grow by 6.7 per cent

 

House appreciation is expected to rise to 10 per cent in San Antonio next year, according to Realtor.com.

Home sales in the popular Texas city are also expected to grow by 6.7 per cent.

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PRESIDENT TINUBU COMMENDS NNPCL OVER THE RE-OPENING OF WARRI REFINERY

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STATE HOUSE PRESS STATEMENT

 

PRESIDENT TINUBU COMMENDS NNPCL OVER THE RE-OPENING OF WARRI REFINERY

 

President Bola Tinubu has expressed his profound joy at the re-opening of the Warri Refining and Petrochemical Company by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, describing it as another remarkable achievement in 2024 that has strengthened Nigerians’ hope in his administration.

 

Today, the Warri Refinery returned to operation weeks after NNPC Limited restarted the 60,000 Barrels per day at the Port Harcourt Refinery in November.

 

With Warri Refining and Petrochemical Company (WRPC) going into operation after several years of inactivity, President Tinubu has once again expressed his administration’s determination to ramp up local refining capacity and make Nigeria a hub for downstream industrial activities in Africa.

 

The All Progressives Congress-led administration of President Muhammadu Buhari awarded the contract for the complete rehabilitation and overhaul of the four state-owned refineries.

 

President Tinubu noted with confidence that with the 125,000 (bpd) Warri Refinery now operating at 60% capacity, his administration’s comprehensive plan to ensure energy efficiency and security is entirely on course. He praised the Mele Kyari-led management of the NNPCL for working hard to restore Nigeria’s glory and pride as a major oil-producing country.

 

“The restart of Warri Refinery today brings joy and gladness to me and Nigerians. This will further strengthen the hope and confidence of Nigerians for a greater and better future that we promised. This development is a remarkable way to end the year following the feat recorded earlier with the old Port Harcourt Refinery. I am equally happy that NNPC Limited is implementing my directive to restore all four refineries to good working condition.

 

“I congratulate Mele Kyari and his team at NNPCL for working hard to restore our national pride and make Nigeria a hub for crude oil refining in Africa,” President Tinubu said.

 

President Tinubu enjoined NNPCL to accelerate repair work on Kaduna Refinery and the 150,000 (bpd) second refinery in Port Harcourt to consolidate Nigeria’s position as a global energy provider.

 

WRPC will focus on producing and storing critical products, including Straight Run Kerosene (SRK), Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), and heavy and light Naphtha.

 

Bayo Onanuga

Special Adviser to the President

(Information & Strategy)

December 30, 2024

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Another petroleum refinery begins operations in Nigeria

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The Warri Refining & Petrochemicals Company (WRPC) in Delta State has resumed full operations, producing 125,000 barrels per day.

The announcement was made by Mele Kyari, Group CEO of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), during a tour of the facility on Monday, December 30.

Despite being in the final stages of its upgrade, the plant is now operational.

Kyari pointed out that many people doubted the project’s feasibility, but the plant’s functionality proves its success.

The tour included Farouk Ahmed, CEO of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).

The facility, located in Ekpan, Uwvie, and Ubeji, Warri, produces 13,000 tons of polypropylene and 18,000 tons of carbon black annually.

WRPC, commissioned in 1978, serves the southern and southwestern regions of Nigeria.

This development follows the recent commencement of operations at the Port Harcourt Refinery and Dangote Refinery.

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