The construction industry in Nigeria continues to grow rapidly as cities expand, real estate investment increases, and infrastructure needs rise across the country. Whether you're building a residential home, a commercial space, or carrying out renovations, choosing the right building materials is crucial for durability, cost-effectiveness, and long-term value. Nigeria’s climate, soil types, and construction culture have also shaped which materials are most commonly used.
Below are the most popular building material types in Nigeria, their unique features, and why builders prefer them.
1. Cement
Cement is the backbone of construction in Nigeria and remains the most widely used building material. It is essential for producing concrete, mortar, blocks, plastering coats, and foundation works.
Why It Is Popular:
Easy availability across all states
Essential for virtually every stage of building
Works well with Nigeria’s tropical climate
Strong bonding properties
Brands like Dangote, Lafarge, BUA, and Ibeto dominate the market, offering different grades suitable for block molding, plastering, and structural works.
2. Sand (Sharp Sand, Filling Sand, Plaster Sand)
Sand is another fundamental construction material used for block production, concrete mix, and rendering. There are three major types commonly used:
Sharp Sand: For block moulding and concrete works
Plaster Sand: Fine-grain sand for internal and external plastering
Filling Sand: For land filling and leveling
Why It Is Popular:
Natural and easily sourced
Affordable
Works well with cement for strong concrete mixtures
3. Granite / Crushed Stones
Granite stones are widely used for concrete mixes in foundations, beams, slabs, and columns. They provide strength and stability to structures.
Types of Granite Sizes:
3/4 (most common)
1/2
Dust (used in interlocking brick production)
Benefits:
High structural strength
Long lifespan
Resistance to weather conditions
Granite is typically sourced from quarries in Ogun, Oyo, Ebonyi, and Abuja.
4. Steel Reinforcement (Rebars)
Reinforcement bars—commonly called “iron rods”—are critical for constructing structural elements such as pillars, beams, foundations, and slabs.
Common Rebar Sizes: 8mm, 10mm, 12mm, 16mm, 20mm, 25mm
Reasons for Popularity:
Enhances the tensile strength of concrete
Essential for multi-story buildings
Readily available in metric and British standard ranges
Countries like Turkey, Qatar, and China export rebars widely used in Nigeria, though many local manufacturers also supply quality steel.
5. Blocks (Sandcrete Blocks)
Blocks are widely used for walls, fences, and partitioning. Sandcrete blocks remain the most affordable and commonly used.
Popular Sizes:
6-inch (hollow or solid)
9-inch (hollow or solid)
Benefits:
Faster wall construction
Moderate insulation properties
Available from both local block industries and on-site production
Interlocking blocks and hydraform blocks are gaining popularity due to sustainability and reduced cement requirements.
6. Roofing Sheets
Roofing sheets complete the building envelope and protect structures from rain, heat, and wind. Nigeria offers a wide range of roofing materials.
Most Common Types:
Aluminum Roofing Sheets: Durable, lightweight, rust-resistant
Stone-Coated Roofing Tiles: Premium and aesthetically appealing
Long Span & Step Tiles: Popular for residential buildings
Zinc (Corrugated Iron): Budget-friendly
Why They Are Popular:
Fits Nigeria’s rainfall patterns
Comes in different price ranges
Easy to install and maintain
7. Wood / Timber
Wood is highly useful for roofing framework, doors, window frames, formwork, interior finishing, and furniture.
Types of Timber Commonly Used:
Hardwood (Opepe, Iroko, Mahogany)
Softwood (used more for scaffolding and temporary works)
Why Nigerians Prefer Timber:
Local availability
Versatility
Strong structural properties
However, rising costs and deforestation challenges have encouraged builders to explore alternatives like steel trusses.
8. Tiles (Floor and Wall Tiles)
Tiles are widely used for bathrooms, kitchens, living rooms, and exterior cladding. They come in different materials and finishes.
Popular Tile Types:
Ceramic Tiles
Porcelain Tiles
Marble and Granite Tiles
PVC and Vinyl Tiles
Terrazzo (though older, still used in some large buildings)
Reasons for Popularity:
Easy cleaning and maintenance
Durable and water-resistant
Wide design and color choices
Most tiles are imported from Spain, China, Italy, and India.
9. Paints and Coatings
Paints provide aesthetic appeal and protect buildings from moisture and heat. Nigerian brands like Dulux, Berger, Chemstar, and Jotun are widely used.
Types of Paints:
Emulsion Paint
Textured Paint
Satin/Gloss Paint
Oil-based Paint
Weatherproof Exterior Coatings
Why Paints Matter:
Enhance beauty
Offer long-term protection
Reduce maintenance costs
10. Plumbing Materials
Every modern building requires an efficient water system, making plumbing components essential.
Common Plumbing Materials Include:
PVC Pipes
PPR Pipes
Copper Pipes (more expensive but durable)
Water storage tanks
Taps, mixers, and bathroom fittings
PVC and PPR are the most popular due to affordability and ease of installation.
11. Electrical Materials
Electricity is a core part of every Nigerian building, and these materials ensure safe and reliable power distribution.
Popular Electrical Materials:
Wiring cables
Conduits
Switches and sockets
Breakers and distribution boards
LED lights and fittings
Local and imported brands supply a wide variety, ranging from budget options to high-end products for luxury homes.
12. Doors and Windows
Doors and windows provide security, ventilation, and aesthetics. The Nigerian market offers a mix of locally made and imported options.
Popular Materials:
Wooden doors (bedrooms, interiors)
Steel security doors (main entrances)
Aluminum sliding windows
UPVC windows
Turkish and Chinese security doors
Nigeria’s construction sector relies on a wide range of building materials that balance durability, cost, functionality, and aesthetic appeal. From cement and blocks to roofing sheets, steel, tiles, and plumbing components, each material plays a crucial role in ensuring structural integrity and comfort. As technology and innovation continue to evolve, newer materials like interlocking blocks, insulated panels, and smart building components are gradually becoming more accepted across the country.
Fittings : Floor Tiles | Wall Tiles | Hand Rails | Security Doors | Front Doors | Room Doors | Gates | Bathroom & Toilet Doors | Aluminium Windows
Plumbing Materials: BathTubs | Bidets | Jacuzzi | Shower Cubicles | Shower Mixers | Kitchen Sinks | Shower Heads | Wash Hand Basins | Water Closets | Water Heaters | Water Pumps | Water Tanks | Water Taps
Roof & Ceiling: Long Span Aluminium | Step Tiles Roofing Sheet | POP Ceiling | Suspended Ceilings | Danpalon Materials | Asbestos Ceiling
Structural Materials: Iron Rods | Wire Mesh | Fencing Wire | Cement
Electricals: Electrical Cables | Electrical Switches | Surge Protectors | Chandeliers | Flood Lights | LED Lights | Wall Lamps