Governor Alia Lauds Economic Transformation Initiatives of BIPC
By Aloysius Umalo, Makurdi
Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has expressed delight over the commissioning of the Benue Investment and Property Company, BIPC, Polythene and Nylon Factory, BIPC Nails Ltd, and the expansion of the BIPC Bread and Water Factories.
At a ceremony to commission the projects, Governor Alia emphasised the significance of the projects in driving economic transformation and providing opportunities for the people of Benue State.
Benue State Commissioner for Commerce, Trade and Industry, Alumo Orpin who represented the Governor noted that Governor Alia’s Seven point agenda includes industrialisation and commercialisation as key components of efforts to transform the state’s economy.
“The focus is on increasing local production and reviving dormant industries as part of measures to Stabilize the economy through price controls as a necessary step to break the hold of traders dominating the business sector in the state”.
He highlighted the importance of reducing reliance on imports, fostering local production, and creating jobs through the industrial ventures.
The Governor praised the projects for addressing packaging material demand, supporting the construction sector, and enhancing food production capacity.
“These initiatives are expected to generate thousands of job opportunities, increase revenue, and position Benue State as an industrial hub.”
Enabling Environment
Governor Alia reaffirmed the government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive, commending the Managing Director of BIPC, Dr. Raymond Asemakaha, for his dedication and innovation.
Earlier, the Managing Director of BIPC, Dr. Raymond Asemakaha announced plans by the company to hit the market with the Benue State brand of Premium Lager Beer on December 22, 2024.
With a vision of a prosperous Benue State where industries thrive and opportunities abound, the Managing Director highlighted the importance of creating an enabling environment for businesses to flourish.
Voice of Nigeria reports that the announcement of the upcoming launch of the BIPC Premium Lager Beer further symbolises the resilience and creativity of the Benue people, set to be introduced to the market on December 22, 2024.
Dr. Asemakaha expressed gratitude to the management, staff, and stakeholders of BIPC for their hard work and dedication, assuring the people of Benue State that BIPC will continue to prioritise initiatives that will create value and improve livelihoods, ultimately driving growth and prosperity.
Industrialisation
Fielding questions from Journalists, Dr. Asemakaha explained that the Benue blue economy aims to boost the state’s economy by adding value through industrialisation.
He said the Nylon Printing machine factory being commissioned was part of the effort to draw people back to business activities within the eco system.
“Since its inauguration in May this year, the first company has created approximately 300 direct jobs with the focus on keeping money circulating within the state and maintaining a strong cash flow.”
He recalled that previously, Nylon and packaging materials of the company were printed in Lagos, but now the plan is to do so locally to reduce costs adding that the production of nails will also take place within the state, eliminating the need for people to travel to other locations to purchase them.
Sustainability
On sustainability measures, he noted that efforts were being made to train individuals in various skills to meet the growing demand resulting from population growth, stating that local production is expected to boost the state’s revenue and GDP.
“Price controls are being implemented to combat traders who inflate prices, with the aim of reducing the impact on the people of Benue State.”
Among the projects commissioned include the BIPC Polythene and Nylon Factory, BIPC Nails Ltd, and the expansion of the BIPC Bread and Water Factories.
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