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In a significant boost to local economic development, the Benue Investment and Property Company Limited (BIPC) has commissioned its third bakery in Gboko, the ancestral headquarters of the Tiv Nation. The event, held on Thursday, underscores the company’s ongoing efforts to enhance industrial growth, create employment opportunities, and stabilize prices of essential commodities like bread and water across Benue State.
Dr. Raymond Asemakaha, CFA, the Group Managing Director of BIPC, spoke at the commissioning, emphasizing that the Gboko bakery aligns with the directive of the Executive Governor, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, to promote industrial expansion and support small-scale production in local communities. “This project will stimulate commercial activities in the area, provide jobs, and help control the prices of basic goods,” Dr. Asemakaha stated. He further revealed plans to begin construction of a fourth bakery in Otukpo, replicating these benefits in Benue South (Zone C).
The BIPC boss also reaffirmed the company’s dedication to reviving moribund state enterprises, including the Anune Tomato Factory, while working toward returning Dangote Cement to Benue ownership for the people’s benefit. He urged citizens to support Governor Alia’s administration in its economic recovery agenda.
Performing the commissioning, the Paramount Ruler of Tiv Nation, His Majesty Prof. James Iorzua Ayatse, represented by Tor Jemgbagh, HRH Afaatyoo Ajoko, commended Governor Alia for transforming the state’s economic landscape. He called on Gboko residents to protect and sustain the project for the community’s collective good.
Hon. Alumo Orpin, the Commissioner for Industry, Trade and Investment, echoed the government’s commitment to backing BIPC as a key driver of job creation and industrial progress. Chief Lady Elizabeth Mary Ngumbur Shuluwa, Chairman of the BIPC Board, praised the state government for stabilizing essential goods prices and pledged the board’s ongoing support through innovative strategies.
Other speakers, including Lucy Jato, GM of Real Estate and Infrastructure; Josephat Ioryoosu, Esq., Company Secretary; and Theresa Abeda, Head of Business Development and Strategy, highlighted how the bakery initiative aims to strengthen local enterprises and boost internally generated revenue.
In goodwill messages, the Ter Gboko, HRH Gabriel Shosum; the APC Woman Leader, Chief Mrs. Lydia Agaigbe; and the APC Youth Leader for Gboko all committed to taking ownership of the project to ensure its long-term sustainability.
This latest milestone reflects BIPC’s strategic role in fostering self-reliance and economic vitality in Benue, with the upcoming Otukpo bakery poised to extend these gains to more communities. As the state pushes forward with revival projects and new investments, initiatives like these are set to play a pivotal part in building a more prosperous future for residents.
