Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia has unveiled Zeva Premium Lager Beer, produced by the Benue Investment and Property Company (BIPC) Limited. The launch event emphasized the importance of community ownership, security, and promotion of the company, alongside responsible drinking.
Governor Alia highlighted that the production of Zeva Premium Lager Beer marks a bold step in harnessing Benue State’s agricultural resources to drive industrial growth. “The decision to embark on the construction of the Food Basket Brewery reflects our vision to leverage Benue’s immense agricultural resources. This venture is more than a business; it is an economic strategy to boost our internally generated revenue (IGR), create jobs, and empower our farmers,” he stated.
The brewery aims to create a sustainable value chain by turning agricultural raw materials like cassava, sorghum, millet, and maize into high-value products. This initiative is expected to reduce dependence on federal allocations, address unemployment, and foster economic stability.
BIPC, under the leadership of Managing Director/CEO Dr. Raymond Asemakaha, has been pivotal in achieving the vision of an industrialized Benue. Dr. Asemakaha expressed gratitude to Governor Alia for providing an enabling environment for the company to drive economic development. “Zeva Premium Lager Beer is a symbol of innovation, resilience, and the indomitable Benue spirit. It embodies the essence of our people and our land,” he remarked.
The launch of Zeva Premium Lager Beer is part of a broader strategy to revitalize existing industries and establish new ones, including BIPC Bread, Water, polythene and nylon printing press, nails, and the brewery. Governor Alia pledged continued government support to ensure the sustained growth of BIPC and its contributions to the state’s economy.
Dr. Asemakaha called on all stakeholders—government officials, traditional leaders, private sector players, and citizens of Benue—to join hands in this transformative journey. He expressed confidence that the business will contribute to the socio-economic development of the state by improving GDP, providing employment, ensuring backward integration for farmers, and boosting economic activities.
With the introduction of Zeva Premium Lager Beer, Benue State is set to position itself as an attractive destination for both local and international investors, showcasing its potential as a hub for tourism, trade, and industrial excellence.
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