Lafarge Africa Plc is set to ask its shareholders to approve a significant change in its corporate identity, proposing to adopt the name “HBM Nigeria Plc.” This pivotal proposal is scheduled to be presented at the company’s 67th Annual General Meeting (AGM), which will take place on April 30, 2026, in Lagos.
The company disclosed this intention in a corporate filing submitted to the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) on Thursday, April 9. The proposed name change is a key item on the AGM agenda, which also includes the approval of financial statements, dividend distribution, and board restructuring.
The management emphasized that the proposed name change from Lafarge Africa Plc to HBM Nigeria Plc is contingent upon shareholder approval through a special resolution. This amendment will formally alter Clause 1 of the company’s Memorandum of Association, thereby reflecting its new legal identity.
Furthermore, the company announced that the Register of Members and Transfer Books will be temporarily closed from April 6 to April 10, 2026. This closure is necessary to update records in preparation for dividend payments. If the name change is approved, dividends are slated to be paid on April 30, 2026, to all eligible shareholders.
Beyond the name change, the AGM will also address routine governance matters, including the approval of audited accounts, declaration of dividends, and the election of board members, all aimed at upholding transparency and regulatory compliance.
This rebranding initiative marks a significant moment for the company, potentially signaling a new strategic direction and a phase of growth. This proposed name change will be the fourth in the company's history. It was formerly known as West Africa Portland Cement Company (WAPCO). Following the acquisition of Blue Circle Industries by Lafarge, it became Lafarge Cement WAPCO Nigeria Plc. The current name, Lafarge Africa Plc, was adopted on July 9, 2014, after shareholder approval, consolidating Lafarge and Holcim’s African operations into a single pan-African entity.
Lafarge Africa Plc recently announced strong financial results for the 2025 financial year, with significant growth recorded across key financial metrics, providing a solid foundation for its proposed strategic evolution.
