A team of engineers from AL WADI AL AKHDAR OIL MILLS, Asher, Cairo, Egypt, has inspected the Taraku Mills factory in Benue State to assess its readiness for full-scale production. The team, led by Saleh Mansury, arrived in the state and conducted an on-site assessment of the facility alongside officials of the Corporate Communications and Information Technology Unit (CCIT) of the Benue Investment and Property Company Limited (BIPC).
The inspection covered the factory’s major sections, with the engineers reviewing its operational processes, equipment and production systems. Following the assessment, the Egyptian team expressed satisfaction with the current condition of the facility, rating its readiness for full production at approximately 75 per cent.
According to Mansury, the remaining 25 per cent involves minor upgrades to some sections of the factory to bring its operations in line with modern technology. He identified the boiler and solvent machine as key areas requiring upgrades, explaining that the improvements would enhance operational efficiency and reduce energy consumption. Mansury said the team was prepared to move into full-scale production once the identified upgrades were completed, adding that plans were also underway to introduce additional production lines, particularly for the production of cakes.
He urged farmers in Benue State to intensify the cultivation of soybeans, groundnuts and maize, noting that the crops are essential raw materials required for the factory’s operations.
Also speaking after the inspection, Engr. James Emmanuel corroborated the assessment, saying the factory was in good condition and capable of operating effectively. He noted that once the required upgrades, particularly in the boiler and solvent sections, were completed, the factory would be positioned to commence production at full capacity.
The inspection forms part of ongoing efforts to revitalise Taraku Mills, optimise its production capacity and determine the timeline for the commencement of full-scale operations, in line with broader moves to industrialise Benue State, create opportunities for farmers and add value to local raw materials.
