PICAMA & Sono Global President Visits Benue, Pledges Major Expansion of Bensono Concentrate Plant

The President and Chief Executive of PICAMA and Sono Group, Mr. Frank Runge, has pledged to significantly upscale operations at the Bensono Concentrate Plant in Benue State during a high-level business visit to Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia at the Government House in Makurdi.

Runge announced plans to increase the plant’s capacity from the current 40,000 metric tons to 100,000 metric tons, while also introducing a new juice production line. He further disclosed that Sono International would add a new production line for Meigo drinks within the next six months as part of its ongoing commitment to the state’s agro-processing sector.

Describing Benue as a strategic destination for food processing and value addition, Runge highlighted the group’s confidence in the quality of juice already being produced in the state. The delegation, which included senior executives from Sono International and partners from Bokku Supermarket Chain, expressed strong interest in expanding processing facilities to help reduce post-harvest losses and create greater opportunities for local farmers.

Deputy Governor Barr. Dr. Sam Ode, representing Governor Alia, appreciated the partnership facilitated by the Benue Investment and Property Company (BIPC). He assured the investors of the state government’s continued support in addressing challenges and improving security, while reaffirming the administration’s dedication to creating an enabling environment for businesses.

Group Managing Director of BIPC, Dr. Raymond Asemakaha, noted that Sono Group has been a key strategic partner in the successful establishment of the Bensono Concentrate Plant, which was commissioned by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The visit underscores growing investor confidence in Benue’s agribusiness potential and the state’s improving investment climate.

The expansion is expected to boost productivity, strengthen the agro-industrial value chain, and generate additional economic opportunities across Benue State.