Makints Construction Company, founded by former welder, Ahmed Maruf, upcycles metal scrap to create affordable agricultural and industrial machinery, including millers, threshers, grinders, storage containers, and the moving parts of a tractor. By reusing discarded materials, Makints Construction Company is supporting sustainable agriculture and industry.
Ahmed’s story
Growing up in Bida, in Niger State, Nigeria, Ahmed lived in a neighbourhood close to a landfill (waste disposal site), filled with scrap metal such as discarded metal gates, drums, crashed cars, and car parts.
After completing apprenticeships as a welder and fabricator he went on to get a degree in chemical engineering. Balancing both academic and hands-on experience, he developed a deep understanding of mechanical systems and materials, which would later shape his vision for Makints Construction.
Ahmed wanted to address two major challenges in his community: metal waste and the high cost of farming equipment, which placed a heavy burden on small-scale farmers. He realised that discarded scrap metal could be used and repurposed instead of adding to landfill, and that he could use this to make essential tools and machinery for farmers for 40% less than they were paying.
The innovation
Ahmed’s journey is driven by a simple idea – industrial metal waste can be turned into an opportunity. By combining his technical skills with a passion for problem-solving, Ahmed is working to create solutions that support both the environment and local communities.
At the core of his work is a meticulous upcycling process that begins with collecting and sorting scrap metal from many sources, including landfill. This is then cut, cleaned, and reshaped into the required sizes. Skilled fabricators handle the design, welding, and assembly, followed by painting and finishing before delivery to farmers. Each step ensures quality, durability, and cost-effectiveness, making essential machinery such as threshers, grinders, oil extractors, and mixers more accessible to small-scale farmers.
Looking ahead, Ahmed plans to expand operations, increase production capacity, and introduce new product lines such as an automatic cassava flakes processor, eco-friendly cooking stoves, and a modular cold storage unit. He is also strengthening partnerships and integrating advanced technologies such as CNC (computer numerical control) machining, laser and plasma cutting, introducing eco-friendly coatings and treatment, and renewable energy-powered fabrication. He is also looking at new markets, such as construction, automobiles, and recycling of scrap metals.
Making a difference
Founded in 2022, Makints Construction Company has already made a significant impact, increasing its production capacity from 4–8 pieces of equipment per month to 15–25. The upcycling team, which began with just four members, has expanded to 12 skilled professionals, including scrap collectors, engineers, and fabricators. This growth reflects both the rising need for affordable agricultural machinery and the company’s commitment to providing sustainable, cost-effective solutions.
Ahmed and his team estimate they have collected approximately 4,500 tonnes of scrap metal to date, reducing waste and upcycling discarded materials into durable farming equipment. With a focus on scaling impact and ensuring quality, they are committed to making sustainable, cost-effective machinery contributing to agricultural productivity and economic empowerment for local farmers.
My goal is to transform society’s waste into affordable equipment for farmers. This enables them to process food on their farms, resulting in lower production costs and more affordable food. Ultimately, I want my company to be a national brand in every household in Nigeria so that every farmer can access this equipment.
