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From Dooshima Hir, Makurdi
The Benue Investment and Property Company, (BIPC) and its partners, SONO Group Global, a Brazilian company, has sealed deals to collaborate in the resuscitation and revitalization of the Benue fruit Juice Company ahead of production in October.
Receiving members of the SONO Group at the company’s headquarters on Monday, the Group Managing Director, GMD BIPC, Dr Raymond Asemakaha said SONO has pedigree as a company with a balanced sheet profit of over 60.6million Euro A tier 1 in the world.
He said the State juice factory located at the Industrial layout, Makurdi, will take the lead in fruit juice concentrate and bio- gas from its residue in Nigeria.
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 percent.
“There will be increased farmers’ income and livelihoods, they would 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.”
The GMD urged all farmers and orange association in the state to work together to ensure the success of the initiative.
He said by October ending, no orange will leave Benue State to another place as the company will offtake 100 percent.
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.
“We will not save any effort to make this thing happen. As soon as possible, we will see Nigeria juice in the world market,” he said.
