Nigerite

Nigerite is a historical trade name for a type of asbestos cement roofing and siding material manufactured and sold primarily in Nigeria and other parts of West Africa. The name "Nigerite" became largely synonymous with asbestos cement sheeting in those regions.

The material itself was composed of cement reinforced with asbestos fibers. Asbestos was used for its tensile strength and fire-resistant properties. Nigerite products were commonly used for roofing, wall cladding, ceilings, and partitions in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings.

The use of asbestos in Nigerite products, as with other asbestos-containing materials (ACMs), has raised significant health concerns. Asbestos fibers, when inhaled, can cause serious and often fatal diseases, including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.

Due to the health risks associated with asbestos, the production and use of Nigerite and other asbestos-containing materials have been significantly restricted or banned in many countries, including Nigeria. Replacement materials such as fiber cement (without asbestos), metal roofing, and other modern building materials are now widely used.

Existing buildings containing Nigerite products pose a risk if the material is disturbed or damaged, releasing asbestos fibers into the air. Proper management and removal procedures, in accordance with local regulations, are essential to minimize the risk of exposure. This often involves encapsulation (sealing the material), enclosure (covering it with another material), or complete removal by trained professionals.