The president and Chief Executive of PICAMA and Sono Group, Mr. Frank Runge, has pledged to upscale the Bensono Concentrate Plant from its current 40,000 metric tons capacity to 100,000 metric tons and introduce a new juice production line in Benue State.
Runge made the commitment during a business visit to Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia at the Government House, Makurdi.
He disclosed that Sono International would add a new production line for Meigo drinks within the next six months as part of its continued investment in the state’s agro-processing sector, describing Benue as a strategic destination for food processing and value addition.
The Chairman said the delegation was encouraged by the enormous agricultural potential of the state and was determined to help reduce post-harvest losses by expanding processing facilities.
He noted that the group has successfully executed similar food processing projects in Ghana and Brazil and expressed confidence in the quality of juice already being produced in Benue.
According to him, the planned investment in Benval Limited will make the factory fully operational, increase productivity, strengthen the agro-industrial value chain and create greater opportunities for farmers and the local economy.
Representing Governor Hyacinth Alia, the Deputy Governor, Barr. Sam Ode, mni, said the Alia administration remains committed to creating an enabling environment for investors.
He explained that the government had removed several bottlenecks that previously hindered investment, noting that Benue now enjoys investment ratings from Fitch and Augusto, making it one of the country’s most attractive destinations for business.
Barr. Ode appreciated Sono International’s partnership with the Benue Investment and Property Company (BIPC), which led to the successful takeoff of the Bensono Concentrate Plant commissioned by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
He assured the delegation that the state government would continue to address any challenges facing investors, urging them to report any impediments for prompt intervention. He also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving security across the state.
Earlier, the Group Managing Director of BIPC, Dr. Raymond Asemakaha, CFA, said Sono Group was the strategic partner that collaborated with the company in building the Bensono Concentrate Plant.
