Governor Alia Unveils Plan to Develop Industrial Parks in 23 LGAs

…..A Game-Changer for Job Creation, Wealth Generation, and Post-Harvest Loss Reduction

By Dooyum Naadzenga

In a bold move to drive industrialisation, tackle post-harvest losses, and bring productive activities to the grassroots, Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has unveiled his administration’s flagship project: the Benue Integrated Agro-Industrial Parks (BIAIPs).

This ambitious initiative, embedded in the recently presented 2025 budget christened the Budget of Human Capital Development, Food Security, and Digital Economy, is set to redefine Benue’s economic landscape.

With 5.6% of the budget earmarked for the first phase of the BIAIPs, Governor Alia is laying a solid foundation for what could become a transformative project for the state.

This commitment will fund feasibility studies, environmental impact assessments (EIAs), land allocation, and other preparatory activities, paving the way for full-scale implementation through strategic public-private partnerships (PPPs).

Tackling Post-Harvest Losses and Empowering the Grassroots

Benue State, often known as the Food Basket of the Nation, faces a persistent challenge of post-harvest losses: up to 40% of its agricultural produce is wasted annually due to inadequate storage, processing facilities, and logistics.

Governor Alia’s BIAIPs seek to reverse this trend by establishing state-of-the-art agro-processing hubs across 23 local government areas (LGAs) of the state.

“Post-harvest losses are a significant hurdle for our farmers,” Governor Alia remarked during the budget presentation. “Through the BIAIPs, we will unlock the full potential of our agricultural produce, ensuring farmers reap maximum benefits from their hard work.”

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The parks will feature state-of-the-art facilities for processing Benue’s key crops – yams, cassava, rice, soybeans, sesame seeds, and fruits. By reducing spoilage and enhancing value addition, the initiative will not only boost competitiveness in local and export markets but also enhance income for smallholder farmers and create thousands of jobs.

Bringing Productivity to the Grassroots

The distributed model of the BIAIPs is designed to decentralise industrial activities, bringing development closer to the grassroots. Each local government area will host an industrial park tailored to the agricultural strengths of its region. This will create a ripple effect of job creation, wealth generation, and skills acquisition in rural areas.

Additionally, the parks will also serve as hubs for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), fostering entrepreneurship and innovation. By providing access to shared infrastructure, modern technology, and business development services, the BIAIPs will empower local businesses to thrive.

Powering Industrialisation: Coalbed Methane as a Catalyst

Industrialisation requires reliable energy, and Benue’s abundant coal reserves present a unique opportunity. The state’s coal deposits in locations such as Owukpa, Okpokwu, Makurdi, Igbor, and Wannune offer immense potential for Coalbed Methane (CBM) extraction. This clean, efficient energy source will play a key role in powering the BIAIPs.

At the recent Natural Gas Expansion Programme (NGEP) Stakeholders Consultative Forum in Makurdi, Governor Alia outlined a roadmap to harness CBM for the state’s industrialisation. “Energy is the bedrock of industrialisation,” he asserted. “By leveraging our coal resources, we will power industries that create jobs, attract investments, and foster innovation.”

The integration of CBM into the BIAIPs energy mix aligns with the state’s vision for sustainable development. Beyond providing power for the parks, CBM will also support the development of a 500,000m³ compressed natural gas (CNG) mother station under the Benue National Gas Expansion Programme. This dual approach will position Benue as a leader in clean energy solutions.

Prof. Muhammed Ibrahim, Chairman of the National Gas Expansion Programme, highlighted the environmental and economic benefits of CBM. “Capturing methane gas from coal seams not only reduces greenhouse gas emissions but also ensures a stable and affordable energy supply,” he noted.

Positioning for Investment: The Role of BENIPA

To attract and sustain investment in the BIAIPs and other sectors, Governor Alia has established the Benue Investment and Property Agency (BENIPA). Tasked with promoting Benue as a premier investment destination, BENIPA will streamline regulatory processes, facilitate partnerships, and provide a one-stop solution for investors.

“Benue is ready to work with investors, technical experts, and development partners to harness our resources responsibly and sustainably,” Governor Alia affirmed. He assured potential investors of the state’s commitment to creating a business-friendly environment through streamlined regulations and supportive policies.

“Our goal is to position Benue as the investment destination of choice,” said the Governor. “With BENIPA as the gateway, we are confident in attracting the right partners to make the BIAIPs a reality.” Fr Alia stressed that the parks and associated energy infrastructure present enormous opportunities for PPP investments, particularly in agro-processing, logistics, and clean energy.

“BENIPA’s efforts have already garnered interest from local and international stakeholders keen on participating in the BIAIPs and CBM extraction projects,” stated Mr Terhemen Johnpaul Kpenkaan, the Agency’s Executive Secretary while addressing stakeholders at the National Gas Forum in Makurdi.

Digital Economy and Infrastructure Development

The Industrial Parks are not only about agriculture and industrialisation but also part of a broader agenda to integrate digital technologies into the state’s economy. Each park will leverage smart technologies for logistics, quality control, and market access, aligning with the budget’s focus on the digital economy.

Additionally, infrastructure development, including roads, storage facilities, park houses and energy networks, will support the seamless operation of the parks. These investments will not only benefit the parks but also enhance connectivity and accessibility across the state.

A Vision for the Future

Governor Alia’s vision for the BIAIPs represents a holistic approach to development, addressing challenges in agriculture and food security, industrialisation, energy, and investment. By leveraging Benue’s natural resources and fostering strategic partnerships, the initiative promises to unlock unprecedented opportunities for the state and its people.

With feasibility studies and groundwork already in progress, the BIAIPs are on track to become a cornerstone of Benue’s economic transformation. As Governor Alia aptly concluded, “The Benue Integrated Agro-Industrial Parks are more than a project; they are a legacy for future generations. Together, we can build a state where prosperity knows no bounds.”