By Chris Agabi
The Benue State Government has launched it’s premier alcoholic beverage, the Zeva Beer brand to the delight of customers.
Zeva Premium Lager Beer is produced by the Benue Investment and Property Company Limited (BIPC)
Speaking at the launch on Sunday in Makurdi, the Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia said Zeva Beer launch speaks to Benue’s determination to harness it’s resources, build and revive dormant industries, and foster local economic growth.
“The decision to embark on the construction of the Food Basket Brewery reflects the vision of this administration to leverage Benue State’s immense agricultural resources to drive industrial growth. As the “Food Basket of the Nation,” Benue is endowed with abundant agricultural produce, yet the state has not fully capitalized on its potential for agro-based industrialization” he said.
“The brewery he noted “will create a sustainable value chain, turning agricultural raw materials like casava, sorghum, millet and maize into high-value products.”
“This venture is more than a business; it is an economic strategy to:Boost our internally generated revenue (IGR), reducing dependence on federal allocations, Create jobs for our teeming youth, addressing unemployment and fostering economic stability, Empower our farmers by providing a guaranteed market for their produce” Gov. Alia explained.
“The brewery will also serve as a model for innovation and industrial excellence, positioning Benue as an attractive destination for both local and international investors” he further explained.
He underscored the value of the investment because Benue Brewery, was previously a thriving enterprise but over the years, challenges led to its decline, but the government has resolved to restore the brewery to its former glory.
“Having seen the economic potentials of the brewery industry on our local farmers and economy of the state, we floated Food Basket Brewery that will produce quality beverages that can compete on national and global stages” he stated.
“The launch of Zeva Premium Lager Beer is a game-changer for the agricultural and economic landscape of Benue State. The brewery’s operations will directly impact the lives of our farmers, the state’s GDP, and overall economic development” he assured.
Also speaking at the event, the Managing Director/CEO BIPC, Dr. Raymond Asemakaha said whilst the completion of the Food Basket Brewery is slated for early 2025, there is the need to begin the journey into brewing without delay.
“This is why we adopted the contract brewing model for Zeva Premium Lager Beer. This approach allows us to bring our product to market quickly while ensuring that it meets the highest standards of quality. It also positions us strategically as we await the full operationalization of the Food Basket Brewery” he explained.
“Once completed, the Food Basket Brewery will not only produce Zeva Premium Lager Beer but also an array of other assorted brands that will cater to diverse tastes and preferences” he further explained.
According to the MD, Zeva Premium Lager Beer is more than just a drink; it is a celebration of the Benue spirit—a spirit of resilience, determination, and excellence.
“This beer embodies the essence of our people and our land. It is a reminder that, together, we can overcome challenges and chart a path toward greatness” he stated.
He assured that BIPC is committed to driving initiatives that will uplift Benue people, create wealth, and foster development.
“From agriculture to real estate, manufacturing to commerce, we will continue to identify and invest in opportunities that will transform the socio-economic landscape of our state” Dr. Asemakaha assured.
He called on all stakeholders government officials, traditional leaders, private sector players, and indeed all citizens of Benue to join hands with BIPC as it embark on this transformative journey.
“Together, we can build a prosperous Benue, one that provides opportunities for all and serves as a beacon of hope and progress” the MD called.
