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Onigbolo Limestone Quarry

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Industrial site

Weather…

The Onigbolo Limestone Quarry, located in the Plateau Department, is the most vital raw material source for Benin's cement industry. It is part of the Société des Ciments d'Onigbolo (SCB) complex, a major joint venture between the governments of Benin and Nigeria established in the early 1980s. The limestone deposits in this region are of exceptional quality and vast quantity, ensuring the long-term viability of the associated cement plant. Extraction is carried out through open-cast mining using heavy machinery to obtain the stone required for clinker production. This industrial activity is a cornerstone of the national construction sector, as cement is an indispensable material for infrastructure development. The quarry and the adjacent factory have permanently reshaped the economic landscape of the Plateau Department, fostering the growth of an industrial township. Beyond its economic significance, the facility faces the ongoing challenge of implementing ecological reclamation measures to minimize its environmental footprint. The partnership with Nigeria highlights the importance of cross-border industrial cooperation in West Africa.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	25	27	28	27	27	26	25	25	25	26	26	26
Rain mm	21	29	66	115	161	203	216	176	275	179	36	14

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?

This is a large open-pit limestone quarry that supplies raw material for the adjacent cement plant. It is a cornerstone of Benin's mining and construction materials sector.

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Visiting

The quarry is an active mining site and is not open to the public for safety reasons. Visitors can observe the excavation from a safe distance on the perimeter road.

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Where to view it

The best viewpoint is from the public road that runs along the edge of the quarry. From there, one can see the terraced walls and heavy machinery operating in the pit.

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Local products

The quarry produces limestone, which is primarily used for cement production. Travelers may see limestone being transported by trucks or encounter cement products at local building supply stores.

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Active season

Mining operations continue throughout the year, with possible variations during the rainy season. The dry season (November to March) allows for easier access and more visible activity.

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Nearby

The quarry is located near the town of Onigbolo, which features basic amenities. Combine with a visit to the nearby cement plant's facilities or explore other industrial sites in the region.