Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, on Thursday inaugurated four factories to boost the state’s Internally Generated Revenue and create jobs for the youth.

The inaugurated factories include Benue Investment and Property Company Polythene and Nylon Factory, BIPC Nails Ltd, and the expansion of the BIPC Bread and Water Factories.

Mr Alia, during the inauguration in Makurdi, said the exercise was a testimony to his commitment to the economic transformation of the state.

Represented by the state Commissioner for Commerce, Trade, and Investment, Alumo Orpin, the governor said the projects symbolised hope, progress, and the determination of his administration to uplift the lives of Benue people.

He said, “The establishment and expansion of these factories signal our resolve to reduce reliance on imports, foster local production, and conserve valuable resources. The BIPC Polythene and Nylon Factory will play a key role in meeting the growing demand for packaging materials, a sector that has traditionally relied heavily on imports. By producing locally, we are not only boosting our own industries but also creating jobs for our people and laying the groundwork for economic self-sufficiency. Similarly, the BIPC Nails Ltd will be instrumental in supporting the state’s construction and infrastructure sectors, providing essential materials that will be critical in the ongoing development efforts within the state.’’.

 Mr Alia said the expansion of the BIPC Bread and Water Factories was another bold step in addressing the dietary and nutritional needs of the people.

He stated, “Collectively, these projects will generate thousands of direct and indirect employment opportunities, increase internally generated revenue and position Benue State as a hub of industrial growth in Nigeria. I want to take this opportunity to reaffirm our unshakeable support for the Benue Investment and Property Company. As a government, we will continue to provide the necessary support to ensure the success of these factories and other ventures that align with our developmental goals. The BIPC is more than a business entity; it is a symbol of hope for the industrial revival of Benue State.’’

 He commended the Managing Director of BIPC, Dr. Raymond Asemakaha, and his team for their dedication, innovation, and relentless pursuit of excellence.

Mr Asemakaha, said the projects were part of their collective pursuit for economic empowerment, industrial growth, and sustainable development for Benue people.

 Mr Asemakaha commended Mr Alia for his visionary leadership and commitment to creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive in the state.

 “These ventures are projected to generate 300 direct jobs and 400 indirect jobs, thereby contributing significantly to the reduction of unemployment in the state. “We at BIPC are committed to providing innovative and high-quality products that meet the needs of our people while positioning Benue State as a hub for industrial revolution in Nigeria. These projects demonstrate the potential for collaboration between the government, private sector, and community to achieve shared goals,” he said.

 He further announced that the BIPC Premium Lager Beer, the first product of the Food Basket Brewery, a subsidiary of BIPC, would be unveiled on December 22, 2024.

(NAN)