By Queen Kunde
The Group Managing Director of Benue Investment and Property Company Limited (BIPC), Dr. Raymond Asemakaha, CFA, has ordered an immediate asset optimization audit of the long-abandoned Wannune Tomato Factory in Tarka Local Government Area, as part of renewed efforts to revive the state-owned agro-processing facility.
Dr. Asemakaha gave the directive during an inspection visit to the site following the commissioning of the BIPC Bakery in Gboko. He expressed deep concern over the level of vandalization at the factory and disclosed that Italian technicians would soon be engaged to carry out a comprehensive assessment of the plant’s assets to guide government decisions on its rehabilitation.
The GMD also directed that security personnel be deployed immediately to protect the facility from further vandalization, describing the factory as a vital asset with huge potential to stimulate the local economy.
“When operational, the Wannune Tomato Factory will empower farmers, create jobs, and promote value addition within the agricultural value chain,” Dr. Asemakaha stated.
Speaking during the visit, the Commissioner for Commerce, Trade and Investment, Hon. Alumo Orpin, revealed that the state government had issued an ultimatum to the private partner engaged during the last administration, which expires at the end of October 2025. He warned that failure to meet the stipulated terms would lead to the revocation of the partnership.
Hon. Orpin commended the BIPC leadership for its proactive measures and assured of his ministry’s full support toward restoring the factory to productive use.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the BIPC Board, Chief Lady Elizabeth Shuluwa, reaffirmed the board’s resolve to ensure the factory’s revival, noting that it remains critical to improving the livelihoods of local tomato farmers.
“The Wannune Tomato Factory is not just an industrial project—it’s a lifeline for our farmers and a driver of rural prosperity,” she emphasized.
With the new directive, stakeholders believe that the long-awaited revival of the factory could mark a major step in Benue State’s industrial resurgence.