By Chris Agabi
The Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia has commissioned four new factories to boost the economic diversification quest of the state.
The factories built and owned by the Benue Investment and Property Company Limited (BIPC) are the BIPC Polythene & Nylon Factory, BIPC Nails, BIPC Bread, and Water Expansion Projects.
All the factories combined will employ at least 300 direct jobs and hundreds indirect jobs.
Speaking at the event, the Governor said the landmark commissioning marks a significant milestone in the commitment to industrial revolution growth in SMEs Space to job creation, and enhanced service delivery to the state.
“These projects represent more than mere industrial expansion; they symbolize hope, progress, and the determination of this administration to uplift the lives of the good people of Benue State” he said.
He further stated that the establishment and expansion of these factories signal our resolve to reduce reliance on imports, foster local production, and conserve valuable resources.
He explained that the BIPC Polythene and Nylon Factory will play a key role in meeting the growing demand for packaging materials, a sector that has traditionally relied heavily on imports.
“By producing locally, we are not only boosting our own industries but also creating jobs for our people and laying the groundwork for economic self-sufficiency” he stated.
Gov. Further noted that the BIPC Nails Ltd will be instrumental in supporting the state’s construction and infrastructure sectors, providing essential materials that will be critical in the ongoing development efforts within the state.
On the BIPC Bread and Water Factories he said is yet another bold step in addressing the dietary and nutritional needs of our people.
“This expansion will ensure that our food production capacity is enhanced, contributing to our state’s food security while creating jobs for many more youths” he said.
He said collectively, “these projects will generate thousands of direct and indirect employment opportunities, increase internally generated revenue (IGR), and position Benue State as a hub of industrial growth in Nigeria.”
“Our state is poised for greatness, and these ventures mark the beginning of a new chapter in our journey towards economic revolution” he further stated.
Also commenting, the Managing Director/CEO of BIPC, Dr. Raymond Asemakaha said the ventures are projected to generate 300 direct jobs and 400 indirect jobs, thereby contributing significantly to the reduction of unemployment in the state.
“We at BIPC are committed to providing innovative and high-quality products that meet the needs of our people while positioning Benue State as a hub for industrial revolution in Nigeria. These projects demonstrate the potential for collaboration between the government, private sector, and community to achieve shared goals” he said.
He further announcedq that BIPC Premium Lager Beer, the first product of the Food Basket Brewery, a subsidiary of BIPC, will be unveiled on the 22nd of December, 2024.
“This new product is a celebration of the resilience, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit of the Benue people. It symbolizes our commitment to delivering excellence while promoting the “Food Basket of the Nation” brand” he stated.
According to him, “this Christmas the BIPC Premium Lager Beer will provide a refreshing touch to family gatherings, celebrations, and festivities, embodying the joy and unity that the season brings. We look forward to your enthusiastic support as we introduce this innovative beverage to the market.”
