By Henry Ibya, Makurdi
The Benue Investment and Property Company Limited,BIPC, has officially commissioned its state-of-the-art bakery in Gboko, marking a significant milestone in the state’s economic revitalization efforts.
Speaking yesterday in Gboko, during the commissioning,Group Managing Director of BIPC, Dr. Raymond Asemakaha, expressed pride in the realization of the bakery project, describing it as a testament to the government’s commitment to industrializing Benue State.
“This is not just an opening ceremony; it is a milestone of economic revitalization for our state and a clear demonstration of our commitment to inclusive development,” he stated.
Dr. Asemakaha highlighted the bakery’s potential to stabilize market prices, boost the economy and create real jobs for the people of Gboko and surrounding communities.
“We have created direct and indirect jobs for our young bakers, our sales team, distributors, and local suppliers. These jobs mean income, dignity, and a better future for many families right here in Gboko,” he said.
The BIPC boss emphasized that the bakery is part of the company’s broader strategy to turn Benue State into a manufacturing powerhouse, recalling that when his team embarked on this mission, their vision was clear: to turn Benue State from a consumption-based economy into a manufacturing powerhouse, describing the bakery as a giant step in that direction.
He expressed optimism that the facility will solidify Gboko’s position as a major industrial and commercial hub in the state, disclosing further that plans are already underway for the next phase in Otukpo.
Dr. Asemakaha expressed gratitude to Governor Alia for his unwavering support and visionary leadership, which have been instrumental in bringing the project to fruition, describing the governor’s commitment to industrializing Benue State as what drives BIPC under his watch forward every single day.
The BIPC boss urged the people of Gboko to own, protect, and patronize the bakery, emphasizing that it is a symbol of progress and prosperity for the community.
Chairman,BIPC Board,Mrs Elizabeth Shuluwa, affirmed that efforts of the company has stabilize the prices of basic commodities for the good of the people.
Shuluwa, assured that the Board under her leadership will continue to support management to succeed, urging the people to expect more from the company.
On his part,Mr. Alumo Orpin, Commissioner for Industry,Trade and Investment, assured that the ministry will continue to work behind the scene to ensure that BIPC deliver on its mandate.
In a remark, Deputy Head, Business Development Strategy,Mrs.Theresa Abeda, expressed the belief that with a loaf of bread selling at N1000.00 at the factory, retailers would make between N300.00 and above, expressing optimism that the chain would improve peoples living standard.
