The Benue Investment and Property Company Limited (BIPC) has distributed over 10 million loaves of BIPC Bread and 20 million water sachets in about a year since the factory was commissioned.
On May May 27, 2024, the BIPC Bread and Water project were launched in Makurdi, the Benue State capital.
Dr. Raymond Asemakaha-CFA, the Group Managing Director and CEO of BIPC said during the launch said BIPC Bread and Water projects were transformative and will drive economic prosperity.
Looking back one year, Dr. Asemakaha said the initiative that started as a modest project has grown into a vital socio-economic lifeline for thousands of residents in Benue State.
“The projects where conceived to provide affordable essential commodities—bread and water—to Benue citizens amidst rising inflation and economic uncertainty. The initiative quickly gained traction, garnering national attention and becoming a model for impactful public-private partnerships” he said in a statement.
“Over the past year, BIPC has expanded its operations significantly. From its initial outlets, the business now operates over two factories in Makurdi, with additional facilities under construction in Gboko and Otukpo, and plans for more across the state” he further stated.
“These outlets offer fresh bread and clean, packaged drinking water at subsidized rates, with a loaf priced at N1,100 and a bag of sachet water remaining at N300—prices that have remained unchanged since inception” the GMD said.
“For many low-income families, daily access to clean water and nourishing bread has become a dependable reality, thanks to this initiative. “This is not just bread and water; it’s dignity. It’s about the government stepping in to protect the most basic human needs,” said Justina Uhemba, a widow and mother of four who sells BIPC bread from her kiosk in Wadata.
Dr. Asemakaha further stated that the BIPC Bread and Water initiative is just the beginning.
In addition to these flagship projects he said BIPC is making strides in other sectors, these include:
“Nail Production: A new factory dedicated to producing nails is now operational, catering to the construction industry and enhancing local supply chains” he said.
Nylon Production: With a focus on reducing plastic waste, BIPC has initiated nylon production, creating eco-friendly packaging solutions. Food Basket
Brewery: This facility is currently at 80% completion and will offer a range of locally brewed beverages, promoting local agriculture and entrepreneurship.
Fruit Juice Processing and Packaging Factory: Also, at 90% completion, this factory aims to process local fruits, providing nutritious options while supporting local farmers.
“These ventures not only enhance food security but also serve as significant job creation vehicles. Hundreds of jobs have been directly created—from bakers and purification staff to logistics personnel and local vendors. Thousands more benefit indirectly through retail sales to the public.
“For every loaf of bread produced, there’s a chain of livelihoods being sustained,” said Dr. Asemakaha.
“From the farmer who grows the wheat to the youth who sells the bread, we are building an ecosystem around compassion and commerce.”
The bread is baked at a purpose-built facility in Makurdi, fully equipped with modern baking equipment and adhering to stringent food safety standards. The water is processed at a BIPC-owned plant, ensuring quality control and hygienic packaging.
As the company plans an anniversary ceremony, Dr. Asemakaha is set to unveil a three-year strategic plan aimed at expanding the scheme across more local government areas in Benue State.
The GMD said this initiative is made possible under the guidance of His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia.
His leadership and commitment to improving the lives of Benue citizens have been instrumental in the success of BIPC’s programs. “BIPC Bread, water, nail, brewery, and juice processing factory is here to stay,” declared Dr. Asemakaha.
“We are exploring partnerships with donor agencies and development organizations to scale the initiative sustainably. Our goal is to ensure that we retain capital flight and no Benue child goes to bed hungry.”
“As the sun sets on the first anniversary of BIPC projects, the legacy of one man’s vision, supported by collaborative leadership, is becoming increasingly clear: in the face of hardship, a loaf of bread and a sachet of water can mean the world if only made accessible to all. With more developmental projects underway, the future looks promising for Benue State. Dr. Asemakaha assured.
