Gov Alia Inaugurates 4 factories in Benue, Commend BIPC foresight 

From Attah Ede, Makurdi

The Benue State Governor,  Hyacinth  Alia, on Thursday, commissioned four factories constructed by the Benue Investment and Property Company Limited (BIPC).

The new businesses include the BIPC Polythene and Nylon Printing Factory, the BIPC Water Expansion Factory, both located beside the company’s headquarters, as well as the BIPC Nails Ltd and BIPC Bread Expansion Factory along Makurdi-Naka Road.

The Polythene and Nylon Printing Factory aims to retain millions that would otherwise be spent on packaging materials imported from Lagos, why the BIPC Nails Ltd is designed to meet the industrial needs of the state. 

The expansions of the Bread and Water factories according to the governor, Alia are intended to meet increasing product demand, ensure availability, create employment opportunities, and boost the state’s internally generated revenue.

Gov. Alia, who was represented by the Commissioner for Industry, Trade and Investment, Alumo Mannaseh Orpin,  emphasized that these factories are expected to reduce importation, create jobs, and enhance food security.

According to the governor, “These projects will generate thousands of direct and indirect employment opportunities, increase our internally generated revenue (IGR), and position Benue State as a hub of industrial growth in Nigeria. Our state is poised for greatness, and these ventures mark the beginning of a new chapter in our journey toward the economic revolution.”

“Our administration remains steadfast in our commitment to creating an environment where businesses can thrive. Through deliberate policies, we will continue to pursue initiatives that encourage investment, enhance infrastructure, and foster transparency in governance. This will uplift the living standards of our people and ensure sustainable economic growth,” he added.

“The commissioning of these factories reflects the vision for the future of Benue State: an industrially diverse, resilient, and economically self-sufficient state. This vision emphasizes the empowerment of the private sector, attracting investors, and maximizing the vast potential of the state’s people and resources.”

Earlier, Raymond Asemakaha-CFA, Managing Director of BIPC, stated that the factories are expected to generate over 700 direct and indirect jobs. 

“The projects we are commissioning today are designed to stimulate economic growth, create employment opportunities, and enhance the overall quality of life for the people of Benue State. 

“These ventures are projected to generate 300 direct jobs and 400 indirect jobs, significantly contributing to the reduction of unemployment in the state.” He said.

Asemakaha also announced that BIPC will launch its premium lager beer on December 22, 2024, assuring residents that the company will prioritize initiatives that create value and improve the livelihoods of the people of Benue

“I am delighted to announce that BIPC Premium Lager Beer, the first product of the Food Basket Brewery, a subsidiary of BIPC, will be unveiled on December 22, 2024.”

In a remark, Cynthia Kundumiyol Dajo, wife of the Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly, praised the Managing Director and called for continued support for the company.

In a vote of thanks, the  Company Secretary, Josephat Terna Ioryoosu, expressed confidence that with the support of Governor Alia, BIPC will continue to fulfil the mandate for which it was established.