Tinubu Commissions Benue Plant to Cut $68bn Fruit Concentrate Imports
President Bola Tinubu has commissioned the 40,000-metric-ton-per-day Benfruit Concentrate Plant in Makurdi, describing it as a major boost to Nigeria’s agricultural processing and industrialisation drive.
Represented by Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, Tinubu said the facility aligns with the Federal Government’s commitment to transforming agriculture through value addition and industrial development.
He noted that the plant’s capacity would create thousands of jobs, stimulate economic activity, boost foreign exchange earnings, and reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported fruit concentrate.
Governor Hyacinth Alia said the project would tackle post-harvest losses by providing a ready market for Benue’s fruit farmers. He added that the factory’s products would serve both local and international markets.
Alia listed the Benfruit Concentrate Plant, a fruit juice factory, and the Food Basket Brewery among industries completed in the last three years, stressing their role in strengthening the state’s economy and creating youth employment.
Group Managing Director of Benue Investment and Property Company (BIPC), Dr. Raymond Asemakaha, said the plant would reduce Nigeria’s heavy reliance on imports, noting the country spent about $68 billion on imported fruit concentrate last year.
He described the facility as one of the largest and most modern concentrate plants in West Africa, with by-products converted into organic fertiliser to ensure zero waste.
Asemakaha praised Governor Alia for reviving a project that had been dormant for over 18 years, saying the plant would significantly reduce post-harvest losses while boosting exports.