The Group Managing Director of Benue Investment and Property Company Limited (BIPC), Dr. Raymond Asemakaha-CFA, has met with members of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) at the NUJ Secretariat in Makurdi and unveiled his company’s efforts at creating new jobs in the state.
Dr. Asemakaha highlighted BIPC’s initiatives aimed at stimulating the state’s economy, generating employment, and reshaping Benue’s civil service-dominated structure into a thriving business ecosystem.
Among the key developments discussed were the launch and expansion of several BIPC ventures including BIPC Bread, with completed expansion along Naka Road and ongoing construction in Gboko and Otukpo to be commissioned soon, BIPC Water plants at Tse-Ayu, along George Akume Way and expansion near the company’s head office; ongoing construction of the Food Basket Brewery and Juice factory, projected to create over 1,400 jobs combined.
Others are BIPC Nails and a Nylon Factory, designed to enhance local manufacturing capacity; Emperor Fertilizer for agro-support; Motorcycle Hire Purchase Scheme already enabling ownership among commercial riders; Electric Solar Cars and the remodeling of BIPC filling station to support CNG and electric vehicle assembly.
The GMD presented remodeling of moribund industries; BIPC Fountain Estate Phase two for medium-income Housing scheme which construction will commence soon.
Dr. Asemakaha also emphasized empowerment initiatives for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), disclosing that a concept note has been submitted to UNHCR for partnership. “We are committed to running an inclusive government; that is why the people are getting means of livelihood from our bread, housing, and hire purchase schemes,” he said.
The BIPC boss noted that while Benue remains largely a civil service state, “we are deliberately changing the narrative” by encouraging entrepreneurship and self-reliance. He revealed that the juice factory will employ at least 400 people directly, while the Food Basket Brewery is expected to create 1,000 direct and indirect jobs.
Calling for a mindset shift among Benue youths, Dr. Asemakaha stressed the importance of skill acquisition and business literacy, citing himself as an example with mastery in over nine different skill areas. “We must embrace business as a way of life,” he urged.
He concluded by expressing appreciation to Governor Hyacinth Alia for his unwavering support and commended the media for their crucial role in promoting development and transparency.
Dr. Asemakaha’s presentation signals a bold push toward industrial revival, economic empowerment, and sustainable growth in Benue State.
