By Queen Kunde
A major boost is on the way for Benue’s agricultural economy as European multinationals, SONO and PICAMA Group, have officially arrived in Makurdi to kickstart production at the Benval Juice and Benfruits factories under the Benue Investment and Property Company Limited (BIPC).
Welcoming the investors, BIPC’s Group Managing Director, Dr. Raymond Asemakaha, CFA, described their arrival as a turning point in the state’s drive to cut post-harvest losses and unlock the full potential of its agricultural produce.
According to him, the orange-processing investment will stabilize the market for farmers, slash post-harvest losses by as much as 80 percent, boost farmers’ income, improve livelihoods, and create new jobs for Benue’s youths.
Dr. Asemakaha stressed that the factories will not only raise the efficiency of agricultural operations but also strengthen Benue’s economy by growing its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and retaining wealth within the state.
He assured farmers that by October this year, Benue oranges will no longer leave the state unprocessed.
“This partnership demonstrates the potential for collaboration and innovation in our agricultural sector, in line with the vision of His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, the Executive Governor of Benue State,” he said.
The BIPC boss further urged members of the Orange Growers Association and local farmers to fully support the initiative, adding:
“As from the end of October, no oranges will leave Benue State unprocessed, as we will offtake 100 percent.”
On his part, SONO Brazil Chairman, Luiz Arenac, thanked the Benue government for its commitment to the project, promising that his team would work tirelessly to meet the October target.
With the take-off of the factories, Benue State is set to strengthen its claim as Nigeria’s “food basket” while emerging as a hub for agro-processing and value addition.
Discussion about this post