From Joseph Uchenna, in Makurdi
Benue State is set to take the lead in fruit juice concentrate andll bio- gas from its residue in Nigeria.
This came to the fore on Monday as the Benue Investment and Property Company, BIPC received its partners, SONO Group Global Brazil, to revitalize and resuscitate its Juice Company located at the Industrial layout, Makurdi.
Group Managing Director, GMD BIPC Dr Raymond Asemakaha who received the partners at the company’ s headquarters, said SONO has pedigree as one of the world’s leading company with a balanced sheet profit of over 60.6million Euro A tier 1 in the world.
He also, noted that the partnership with the Brazilian company is a significant milestone in the state’s effort to add value to her Oranges.
Asemakaha maintained that the partnership between BIPC and their investors, Sono and Picama Group which will last for 15 years, marks a new era in its efforts to reduce post-harvest losses and boost the State economy.
He said, “By investing in our orange produce, these investors are not only creating a stable market for our farmers but also helping to reduce post-harvest losses by up to 80%
“There will be increased farmers’ income and livelihoods, create jobs opportunities for our teen youths and enhance the overall efficiency of our agricultural operations
” It will contribute to the growth and development of our state’s economy, increase our state GDP as well as hold cash within the system.
“This partnership demonstrates the potential for collaboration and innovation in our state’s agricultural sector.
“| urge our farmers and orange association to work together to ensure the success of this initiative. By October end, no orange will leave Benue State to another place as we offtake 100%.
Chairman, SONO Group Global, Luiz Arenac said he
believes in the resources the State has, assuring that they will get the same quality plant and produce as in Europe.
He said, “We will not save any effort to make this industry happen. As soon as possible, we will see Nigeria juice in the world market”.
