Benue state is turning its “Food Basket of the Nation” nickname into a global lifestyle statement with the relaunch of its juice processing factory, set to begin operations in October 2025. Nestled in Makurdi, the revamped plant will process mangoes, oranges, and pineapples into juice and concentrates, transforming local harvests into export-worthy products while redefining Nigeria’s agri-business narrative.
The project is powered by a 15-year partnership between the Benue Investment and Property Company (BIPC) and European firms SONO and PICAMA Group. With a staggering capacity to churn out 62,000 liters of juice per hour, the factory, a gateway to jobs, reduced post-harvest waste, and fresh opportunities for Benue’s farmers.
“This investment is about ending the waste, boosting incomes, and making Benue juice a global brand,” said BIPC CEO Raymond Asemakaha. He revealed that the initiative could slash fruit spoilage by up to 80% while retaining wealth within the state.
For locals, it means more than just fresh juice; it’s economic empowerment in a bottle. Youths are set to benefit from thousands of direct and indirect jobs, while farmers gain access to a stable, lucrative market.
SONO Group’s chairman, Luiz Arenac, promised European-level standards: “Very soon, Nigerian juice will be competing in the world market.”
Benue isn’t just squeezing fruits—it’s squeezing out possibilities.
