How Concrete Logistics is Reinventing Durability in Nigeria’s Construction Sector
Adekoyejo Orobiyi Rhodes, Founder, Concrete Logistics Limited
In the rapidly evolving Nigerian construction industry, durability and sustainability are becoming increasingly important. Concrete Logistics, a leading company in the sector, is revolutionizing construction practices by introducing innovative waterproofing solutions, the company has been at the forefront of promoting construction durability and permanent concrete waterproofing.
Background
I am Ade-koyejo Orobiyi Rhodes. I hail from a business-oriented Lagos family where entrepreneurship was deeply ingrained. My parents, Yinka and Bola Rhodes, founded Rosabol Nigeria Limited, a leading marble and granite flooring business, in the early 1970s.
Growing up in this industrial environment exposed me to the construction industry from a young age. I spent holidays working in the marble and terrazzo production factory, which shaped my entrepreneurial mindset and career. Rosabol Nigeria Limited played a significant role in developing the flooring segment of the construction industry, undertaking major projects like the Federal Secretariat in Ikoyi and the Festac Town development.
My experience in the Nigerian construction industry helped me develop the ability to identify emerging opportunities in this sector and convert them into scalable, sustainable ventures.
This expertise led to the formation of Concrete Logistics Limited with professional partners 15 years ago, driven by a mission to deliver long-term value through innovative construction solutions. We believe by providing permanent integral waterproofing solutions, we can deliver lasting value to builders, developers, and infrastructure owners, while protecting their investments in concrete.
What Sets Concrete Logistics Apart
Concrete Logistics stands out in the industry due to our intentional corporate effort to educate and advocate for integral crystalline waterproofing technology. This is not about just selling a product; it’s about changing mind-sets. We hope to create a durability-first mindset in construction industry professionals – the Engineers, architects, contractors, builders, developers and owners.
Concrete is porous and industrial studies have shown that water and moisture are the leading causes of structural failures in buildings, particularly in humid and waterlogged environments like Nigeria. Over 80% of structural failures in such climates are linked to moisture-related deterioration. Therefore, promoting construction durability and permanent concrete waterproofing is crucial when planning and investing in concrete structures.
Our mission is clear – to protect concrete from water damage at the molecular level, delivering lasting value to builders, developers, and infrastructure owners. Integral concrete waterproofing is not a cosmetic add-on, it is a fundamental investment in durability, that will affect the life span and safety of building structures.
We achieve this by introducing Kryton’s proprietary admixture, Krystol Internal Membrane (KIM), which transforms concrete into a self-sealing waterproofing barrier. KIM provides a permanent waterproofing solution, eliminating the need for nylon DPC membranes or coatings.
By introducing integral crystalline waterproofing into the Nigerian market in 2010, Concrete Logistics redefined construction durability in the country. By protecting concrete from within, we ensure the longevity and durability of building structures. This approach not only benefits our customers but also safeguards their construction investments.
Our commitment to innovative solutions and customer education has established us as a leader in the industry.
How do you assess the current state of Nigeria’s construction industry, and what challenges do you think are the most pressing for companies operating in this sector?
The Nigerian construction industry is growing rapidly but faces significant challenges, including a shortage of basic housing, poorly built and maintained infrastructure, and a lack of investment in modern construction methods and education. Compared to countries like the UAE and Qatar, Nigeria’s construction industry lags behind in terms of quality and understanding of modern concrete works.
The industry’s challenges include a wide gap between construction demand and supply, high construction costs, a lack of structured formal apprenticeship training programs, and the impact of the Naira exchange rate collapse on raw material costs. These challenges have resulted in low-quality buildings, building collapses, and properties that are only affordable to the richest segment of society.
To address these challenges, the industry needs significant investments in modern construction methods, equipment, education and proper training of skilled and knowledgeable labour to accelerate its growth and improve the quality of construction projects.
Concrete Logistics has likely worked on numerous high-profile projects. Can you share a particularly memorable project and the role your company played in its success?
We are the leading durability partner to Nigeria’s local construction industry. Fifteen years ago, we introduced Kryton Crystalline integral concrete waterproofing admixture into the Nigerian market with key objectives: provide permanent waterproofing from within the concrete, meet the growing demand for low-maintenance and long-lifespan construction solutions, offer a cost-effective alternative to waterproofing failures and repairs, and equip local construction professionals with globally trusted technology.
Kryton KIM has been specified in numerous high-profile projects across Lagos, including the prestigious Kingsway Tower, The Heritage Place in Ikoyi, and the Standard Chartered Bank Head Office in Victoria Island. A notable project is the ongoing United States of America Consulate Complex at Eko Atlantic, Lagos, where our KIM admixture was used for all below-grade construction structures. The designers also prioritized protecting steel reinforcement in piles and below-grade structures due to the high corrosive nature of the ground soil and exposure to saline water.
KIM’s effectiveness in marine environments is backed by a 10-year test of corrosion-inhibiting admixture conducted by the University of Hawaii, USA, making it an ideal choice for such projects.
Innovation is key to staying ahead in the construction industry. What specific innovations have Concrete Logistics introduced, and how have they impacted your operations and clients?
Concrete Logistics has introduced two major innovations to the Nigerian construction industry. These are Integral Crystaline Waterproofing concrete admixture and Dewatering and ground water control Services.
We introduced Kryton’s Integral Crystalline Waterproofing Technology, a globally proven innovation from Canada, which transforms concrete into a self-sealing waterproofing barrier. Kryton’s proprietary admixture, Krystol Internal Membrane (KIM), forms millions of insoluble needle-like crystals within the concrete matrix, blocking micro-pores and hairline cracks permanently. This was to address a persistent issue highlighted in many construction projects: concrete structures failing prematurely due to water ingress. Traditional waterproofing methods have proved unreliable and difficult to maintain under Nigeria’s tropical climate and high groundwater table conditions.
Additionally, we created our Dewatering Logistics Division; By providing construction projects dewatering and groundwater control solutions we, ensure stable, dry, and workable conditions for foundations and below-grade structural works. This is particularly critical in high water table areas like Lagos.
These innovations have significantly impacted our operations and clients, improving the durability of concrete structures, enhancing safety, and increasing efficiency. By specializing in moisture control, we’ve established ourselves as a leader in the construction industry, committed to delivering safer, drier, and high integrity concrete structures.
As an indigenous company, how do you see your role in contributing to Nigeria’s economic development, particularly in terms of job creation and infrastructure development?
Concrete Logistics aims to contribute significantly to Nigeria’s economic development by promoting the construction of durable and long-lasting buildings that meets international standards and their projected lifespan. This focus on sustainability is crucial, as the cost of fixing water-damaged structures far exceeds the cost of prevention. Proper waterproofing at the beginning of new constructions, can adds decades of life to structures, making it a necessity rather than a luxury.
Our role is to make structures more resilient, whether it’s a multinational project or a local initiative. By doing so, we hope to build a stronger Nigeria construction industry, —one foundation at a time and building that last.
In line with this goal, we’re planning to implement a backward integration program to start producing some of our waterproofing products locally. This initiative will be complemented by an apprentice-style applicator training program, designed to equip young Nigerians with skills in durability and waterproofing systems. We’re committed to investing in the training and certification of applicators, ensuring that our projects are executed with the highest standards of quality and durability.
What are the biggest opportunities and challenges you see on the horizon for Concrete Logistics, and how is the company positioning itself to capitalize on these opportunities?
The biggest opportunities we see as a company is that the Nigerian construction market is still growing. We believe that as we educate the construction professionals and public on improving local construction methods and systems, the market will embrace crystalline integral waterproofing as a standard requirement and input for building foundations and below grade concrete in new construction.
The benefit of this cannot be underestimated because if we can improve construction durability across the sector, the savings in repair and maintenance will be enormous. Developers and owners, who invest in durable construction, would not only reduce maintenance costs, but increase property value and client satisfaction especially in commercial, residential and infrastructural projects.
We advise any buyer or owners of new buildings or properties to insist the developers/contractors show evidence of proper waterproofing systems used in the construction and ask for warrantees against future water damages that may be experienced in the future.
Waterproofing solutions are therefore essentials—not as enhancements, but as critical safeguards—to extend the service life of concrete structures, maintain structural integrity, and ensure long-term performance, especially in moisture-prone environments like Nigeria.
In terms of challenges, it starts with the consultants, many of them see concrete waterproofing as optional rather than essential. Many Contractors are resistant to adopting new methods. They believe in the older and outdated methods of waterproofing using felt membranes and nylons. Integral Waterproofing is often omitted from early designs, leading to reactive and inadequate solutions during or after construction. Corruption and self-interest of certain consultants, over-rides the interest of their clients, thus instead of specifying the very best available products, they cut corners for their selfish benefits at a great future cost to the client and their building structures.
Also, developers and clients often prioritize lower upfront costs over long-term durability of their projects, thus proper integral waterproofing is sidelined or replaced with cheaper, inferior methods that fail prematurely. The Nigerian building codes rarely enforce waterproofing as a compliance requirement.
Furthermore, it is important that consultants and clients demand from vendors of waterproofing products, their product certification and independent testing of their product offerings. We believe many of the products in the market are substandard or fake. Most clients cannot know this until a few years down the road after they have used such products, and they fail. It is critical for suppliers to back their product offerings with verifiable testing results like BBA or B.S. standards analysis.
For us to mitigate some of the above challenges and position ourselves properly in the industry, we have set up an ENVELOPE WATERPROOFING SERVICES. With this, we shall advice clients especially architects on all required preventive waterproofing steps needed from their drawings before they are issue for construction. This way, projects waterproof needs are not left to chance as the needs will be clearly defined and stated from the initial stages. We also plan to put a lot of effort in industry education, training and certification and supervision of waterproofing applicators.
What advice would you give to young entrepreneurs looking to break into Nigeria’s construction industry?
It is very difficult to be an entrepreneur in Nigeria’s current season, but my first advice for anyone wanting to enter the construction industry is to find an experienced person in the industry as a mentor to discuss their thoughts and share their ideas with.
They must educate themselves on the major problems the industry faces that need urgent solutions. When identifying these problems, they must understand why they persist and search for the best possible solutions.
Curiosity is key; they must always ask questions. Once they find solutions, they need to understand them and figure out how to deliver these solutions to the market.
Believing in oneself is crucial. They should take baby steps at the beginning and gradually build momentum until they can prove their solution works. Pacing is critical, and the journey is a marathon, not a sprint.
Conifer Konstruktion Nigeria Limited: Pioneering Quality, Reliability and Excellence in Construction Project Delivery
Engr. Okoye Chukwunonso, CEO, Conifer Konstruktion Nigeria Limited
Conifer Konstruktion Nigeria Limited is redefining the construction landscape in Nigeria with its commitment to stress-free construction. As a leading building construction company, the company has identified the pitfalls of poor project quality that often plague indigenous contractors and have instead prioritized a robust quality assurance policy. With a team of skilled professionals and state-of-the-art equipment, they are delivering high-quality projects that meet clients’ needs without breaking the bank. Their impressive portfolio boasts numerous projects across several clients, showcasing their expertise in navigating complex construction endeavors.
Conifer Konstruktion’s suite of building construction services caters to diverse client needs, ensuring precision and care in every project. From general building construction to project and contract management, their expert team delivers bespoke solutions that meet unique client requirements. With an unwavering commitment to quality, safety, and customer satisfaction, they set a new standard for excellence in the construction industry.
Engr. Okoye Chukwunonso, a seasoned professional with over two decades of experience in the Nigerian construction industry and a proven track record leads Conifer Konstruktion Nigeria Limited as its Chief Executive Officer. With a strong foundation in engineering, bolstered by his membership in the Nigerian Society of Engineers (MNSE) and registration with the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), he brings expertise and credibility to his role. As a Certified Management Consultant with a Graduate Certificate in Advanced Project Management and a Masters in Business Administration, he adeptly navigates complex construction projects, leveraging his skills to drive innovation and excellence in Nigeria’s built environment. Notably, he has successfully managed high-profile projects such as the Dr. Alex Ekwueme Parade Ground and Cenotaph in Awka, Anambra State, and a 9,000-capacity auditorium for the Deeper Life Church Complex at Awka. Under his leadership, Conifer Konstruktion has established itself as a reputable player in the construction industry, delivering high-quality projects that meet the needs of its clients. His vision for the company is built on a commitment to professionalism, integrity and customer satisfaction, positioning the company for continued growth and success.
With a growing presence across Nigeria’s construction landscape, Conifer Konstruktion has earned a reputation for technical precision, efficient project management and client-centered service, delivering projects that stand the test of time. From Awka to Owerri, Port Harcourt to Enugu, their footprint is marked by quality, durability and timely delivery. At the heart of their operations is a commitment to “Stress-Free Construction,” a promise to relieve clients of the burdens of building, including uncertainty, logistical frustrations and supervision fatigue. By handling every stage with professionalism, clarity and transparency, the company makes construction a seamless experience. As the Managing Director aptly puts it, “We understand that for many Nigeriansespecially those in the diasporaconstruction can be daunting. Our mission is simple: take that burden off their shoulders and deliver with integrity.”
The company’s management team has astutely identified the complexities plaguing Nigeria’s construction environment, including regulatory hurdles, supply chain inconsistencies, and subpar workmanship. In response, they have developed a holistic delivery model that tackles these challenges head-on. By integrating comprehensive project planning tailored to the Nigerian context, reliable procurement and logistics systems, and a vetted network of artisans, suppliers and subcontractors, the company ensures timely and quality delivery. Robust client communication channels also enable them to keep both local and diaspora clients informed every step of the way. This innovative approach delivers cost-effective construction solutions that meet the unique needs of the Nigerian market.
As Conifer Konstruktion continues to contribute its quota to shaping the future of construction in Nigeria, it is not only building structures but also fostering trust and redefining the industry’s narrative. Looking ahead, the company is poised to leverage emerging trends such as smart homes, sustainable design, and modular systems to stay at the forefront of modern Nigerian construction. With a focus on innovation, the company plans to scale its digital platforms, enabling seamless remote project monitoring and enhancing client experience. The company also aims to expand its construction equipment leasing operations, further solidifying its position in the market. By deepening strategic partnerships, the company is set to boost project delivery success rates, cementing its reputation as a leader in Nigeria’s construction industry.
Speaking on the company’s sustained growth, Engr Okoye Chukwunonso attributed it to Conifer Konstruktion’s unique approach. “In a sector where many clients have experienced stress, loss, or uncertainty, Conifer Konstruktion Nigeria Ltd offers peace of mind,” he said. “We prioritize quality project delivery that showcases our capacity and competence to the world. Whether you are planning a dream home, a commercial property, or an institutional project, we bring clarity, discipline and a commitment to excellence.” This commitment to excellence has earned the company a reputation for reliability and expertise, cementing its position as a trusted partner for clients seeking to bring their vision to life.
OAT CONSTRUCTION NIGERIA LIMITED: Transforming Spaces, Exceeding Clients’ Expectations with Bespoke Solutions
Soji Adeniji, Managing Director/CEO, Oat Construction Nigeria Limited
Oat Construction Nigeria Limited is a pioneering indigenous building and civil engineering construction company that brings dreams to life, crafting structures that stand the test of time. Where craftsmanship meets excellence, the company’s passion for building is evident in every project it undertakes. With expertise spanning every conceivable design in building, civil engineering and allied fields, the quality-focused and integrity-driven company is dedicated to creating lasting legacies that reflect its clients’ aspirations. By combining passion and perseverance, the company builds more than just structures – it builds foundations for generations to come.
At the helm of Oat Construction Nigeria Limited is the dynamic Managing Director/CEO Soji Adeniji, a seasoned professional with over 32 years of experience in strategic construction economics, administrative matters, and project delivery. With a focus on high-end real estate and infrastructural development, he spearheads diverse projects, including industrial and commercial buildings, specialized petroleum downstream projects and mixed-use residential developments across Nigeria. His expertise in quantity surveying and project management is underscored by his fellowship in the Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors, Institute of Construction Industry Arbitrators, and the Institute of Management Specialists.
Soji Adeniji’s academic background is impressive, with a Higher National Diploma in Quantity Surveying from The Polytechnic Ibadan, a Postgraduate Diploma from the University of Calabar, and a Master’s in Project Management from the University of Lagos. His professional journey, which includes stints at Adold Engineering Co. Ltd and Projectscope Ltd, has equipped him with the leadership skills and expertise to drive Oat Construction’s vision. Under his guidance, the company’s diverse team of experienced professionals works tirelessly to deliver top-notch projects that meet the highest standards of quality and excellence.
Building on its comprehensive suite of services, Oat Construction’s approach ensures seamless integration of all project elements, from project planning and design to construction and project management. With expertise in diverse designs and a commitment to excellence, the company delivers top-tier results in construction and allied fields, catering to the diverse needs of its discerning clients. By leveraging value engineering, cost estimation, scheduling, quality control and safety management, skilled professionals handle every aspect of the construction process with precision, care, and attention to detail, ensuring timely completion, budget adherence and uncompromising quality that meets the highest industry standards.
What sets Oat Construction apart is its unrivaled respect and professionalism, even in the toughest schedules. The company fosters strong, collaborative relationships that prioritise client satisfaction, ensuring clients benefit from a better understanding of their project needs. By delivering bespoke solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of each project, it has built an impressive client base, including developers, corporations, and individuals seeking high-quality construction services. With a focus on shorter construction times, the innovative construction company covers scheduling, budgeting, subcontractor bids, quality control, safety, and total project management, guaranteeing expertise and value.
The company’s capabilities are underpinned by comprehensive expertise, spanning the entire project lifecycle and ensuring greater efficiency and cost savings. From meticulous planning to flawless execution, competitive costs are delivered without compromising on quality standards. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies and adopting sustainable practices that minimise environmental impact, Oat Construction’s skilled professionals navigate the intricacies of each project with precision and care. With a commitment to innovation and quality, the company can handle a wide range of projects, from small-scale renovations to large-scale developments, delivering results that exceed client expectations and set new benchmarks for the industry.
Oat Construction’s impressive portfolio is a testament to its unwavering commitment to delivering excellence in the built environment. From the gleaming skyscrapers of Lagos to the sprawling landscapes of Abuja, the company’s executed projects showcase its versatility and expertise. The construction of luxury apartments at Signatoria Courts, with its sleek designs and opulent finishes, has redefined upscale living in Lagos’ esteemed GRA neighborhoods. Meanwhile, projects like the Friesland Campina factory expansion and the Honeywell Head Office building demonstrate Oat Construction’s capabilities in delivering complex, high-stakes infrastructure projects that meet the needs of Nigeria’s leading corporations.
The company’s diverse portfolio also includes an array of innovative and functional projects, such as the ENYO Filling Stations, Total Service Stations, and Oando Service Stations, which showcase its expertise in designing and building critical infrastructure. Additionally, Oat Construction has made a lasting impact on Nigeria’s spiritual and commercial landscapes through projects like the Redeemed Christian Church of God’s Jesus House and the Fidelity Bank remodeling project. As a result, this standard-focused construction company has cemented its reputation as a trailblazer in Nigeria’s construction industry, poised to continue shaping the country’s built environment with innovative and world-class projects.
The company’s impressive client base is a reflection of its reputation and expertise. Over the years, Oat Construction has worked with government agencies, including the federal government and some state governments, as well as corporate organizations such as financial institutions and oil marketing companies. This diverse clientele underscores the company’s versatility and ability to deliver high-quality projects across various sectors. With its commitment to excellence and results-driven approach, the impact making indigenous construction company is poised to continue delivering transformative projects that meet the evolving needs of its clients.
