Block makers in the northern parts of the country have complied with the directive of the Standard Organization of Nigeria, SON on classification of cement grades and usages.  Speaking during a sensitisation seminar organised by  Dangote Cement Plc, the block makers said that most of them now use 42.5R for making blocks.

Vanguard Homes & Property recalls that not long ago, SON, in a desperate bid to stem the rising occurrence of collapsed buildings in the country, directed that 42.5R be used for casting of columns, beams, slabs and making blocks, while the low grade 32.5MPA was restricted to plastering. The 52.5R is stipulated for use when constructing bridges.

The Chairman of Kaduna State Blocks and Concrete Makers Association, Alhaji Hamza Haruna Gambo said all his members have complied with the SON directive on cement classification.

Alhaji  Gambo who owns block making factories across the country said the directive was in the national interest, adding that most of block makers in North now use Dangote 3X cement as it is the only cement with 42.5R grade which meets SON’s specification.

“We’ve been using the new improved cement for the past two months.  Those of our members who will refuse to comply, we would deal with them according to our constitution,” he added.

He commended the Dangote Group for organising the seminar across the country, saying it would add value to block making businesses and safety of Nigerians. In his response, the Sales Regional Director of the Dangote Cement Plc, Mr. Shola Alo said the seminar is aimed at sensitising the block makers on the new directive of SON, as well as educate them on issues bordering on manufacturing, marketing, sales and cement usage.