The Benue State House of Assembly has called for the re-capitalization of the Benue Investment and Property Company Limited (BIPC) to enable it deliver optimally on its mandate of driving industrialization and economic growth in the state.
The call was made by the House Committee on Rules and Business during an oversight visit to the BIPC Brewery along Gboko Road, Benfruits and Benval Juice Factories at the Industrial Layout in Makurdi.
Speaking during the tour, the Committee Chairman, Hon. Thomas Dugeri, commended Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia for prioritizing industrial development and for appointing Dr. Raymond Asemakaha as Group Managing Director of BIPC, describing the choice as a “wise decision.”
Hon. Dugeri noted that both factories are about 90 percent complete and would soon begin operations. He emphasized that their successful take-off has the potential to significantly transform Benue’s economy, while stressing the need for re-capitalization in future budgets to support further developmental projects.
On his part, Group Managing Director of Bipc, Dr. Asemakaha praised Governor Alia’s consistent support and revealed that by October 15, the first batch of 20 trucks carrying oranges would arrive for the test run of the fruit juice factory.
“This initiative is a deliberate effort aimed at redirecting the economy of our state,” he said, urging Benue youths to embrace practical skills that guarantee self-reliance instead of relying solely on academic qualifications.
The brewery and fruit juice factory are projected to create over 4,000 direct and indirect jobs, boosting employment and economic opportunities in the state.
The Assembly’s endorsement of BIPC’s initiatives highlights a united front in pushing for industrialization, job creation, and improved livelihoods for the people of Benue State.
