The Benue State Government has commenced the production of locally made juice at the revitalised Benfruits Industry in Makurdi to ensure that local farmers gain full value for their produce.

The test-run, conducted on Wednesday at the Industrial Layout in Makurdi, saw the first batch of juice successfully produced from locally sourced oranges.

Speaking at the event, the Group Managing Director of the Benue Investment and Property Company Limited (BIPC), Dr Raymond Asemakaha, described the development as a dream come true. 

He commended Governor Rev. Fr. Dr Hyacinth Alia for reviving the factory after years of neglect.

“Today is the happiest day of my life. This company was abandoned for many years, but we have revitalised it,” Dr Asemakaha said.

He further reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to supporting farmers and reducing post-harvest losses. 

According to him, once the factory becomes fully operational, no orange will leave Benue State unprocessed.

“We want our farmers to have value for their oranges and every other farm produce”. 

“This plant will address post-harvest losses, create jobs, increase farmers’ income, raise revenue, and boost the state’s GDP,” he added.

Dr Asemakaha also revealed that the factory would produce essential oils for pharmaceutical use and organic fertiliser from orange chaff, ensuring that every part of the fruit is utilised efficiently.

He appreciated the company’s partners, SONO Group, Lead Technician Engr. Henry Boager and the BIPC management and staff, for their efforts in making the project a reality.

Engr. Boager disclosed that the factory has the capacity to produce four tonnes of juice per hour, noting that the initiative would significantly reduce post-harvest losses while guaranteeing better returns for farmers.

A local orange farmer, Mr Wilfred Gbatsoron, expressed joy over the development, describing it as a long-awaited relief for fruit producers in the state.

“Before now, our oranges used to waste, but now we have a market. We will expand our farms to increase production,” he said.

The revitalisation of Benfruits is one of several industrial revival projects championed by the Alia administration, seeking to strengthen agro-industrial development, job creation, and economic diversification across Benue State.

Source: Benue Investment and Property Company Limited