Benue State is set for a major industrial boost as the Food Basket Brewery, alongside the Benfruit and Juice factories, is scheduled for inauguration in October 2025. The multi-billion-naira investment is expected to inject fresh momentum into the state’s economy and generate at least 1,500 direct jobs.
The Group Managing Director of the Benue Investment and Property Company Limited (BIPC), Dr. Raymond Asemakaha, revealed on Thursday in Makurdi that the brewery project would cost between ₦10 billion and ₦15 billion upon completion.
Speaking after taking delivery of 10 truckloads of machine equipment—adding to the 16 already received out of an expected 50—Asemakaha expressed confidence that all three factories would be operational before year’s end.
“Benue doesn’t have many businesses at the moment. We are introducing these projects to boost the economy and take our youths off the streets,” he said.
The BIPC chief disclosed that the brewery alone is projected to generate ₦400 million to ₦500 million monthly, tapping into Nigeria’s lucrative beer market, where industry leaders post multi-billion-naira profits.
In addition to the brewery, the Benfruit and Juice factories will join existing ventures such as table water, nails, bakery, and polythene production facilities—factories that have already created 580 direct jobs and over 3,000 indirect jobs for Benue residents.
“Our goal is to ensure money circulates within Benue. These businesses will not only create jobs but also strengthen the state’s economic base,” Asemakaha noted, adding that the projects align with Governor Hyacinth Alia’s industrialisation agenda.
The launch of the three factories marks a bold step in positioning Benue as a key player in Nigeria’s agro-processing and manufacturing sector, leveraging the state’s agricultural strengths to drive sustainable growth.
