Nigeria: Launch of Zeva Premium Lager beer expected to boost Benue State’s economy, create jobs

Governor of Benue State Hyacinth Alia has lauded the launch of Zeva Premium Lager Beer, a flagship product of the Benue Investment and Property Company Limited as a transformative step toward industrial growth and job creation in the state, The Will News Media reported on December 23.

Speaking during the unveiling ceremony held at the IBB Square in Makurdi on Sunday, December 22, Alia emphasized that the initiative underscores his administration’s commitment to industrialization, economic diversification, and sustainable development.

“This project is a landmark achievement in harnessing Benue’s agricultural potential,” the governor said.

“The Food Basket Brewery, which produces Zeva Premium Lager, creates a sustainable value chain by converting local crops such as cassava, sorghum, millet, and maize into high-value products. This will not only empower farmers and create jobs but also stabilize the local economy.”

Alia outlined the broader benefits of the brewery, including an increase in Benue’s GDP, enhanced government revenue, and the provision of a stable market for farmers.

He also highlighted the ripple effects on industries such as packaging, distribution, and retail, stressing the importance of such projects in fostering a business-friendly environment.

He further applauded other initiatives by BIPC, including bread and water production and a motorcycle hire-purchase scheme, as critical drivers of economic diversification and industrial revival.

While encouraging residents to patronize locally produced goods like Ori Bitters Drink, also made from indigenous materials, Governor Alia advised against underage alcohol consumption, urging the public to drink responsibly.

Dr. Raymond Asemakaha, Managing Director/CEO of BIPC, described Zeva Premium Lager as a testament to innovation and resilience. He noted that the project has already created thousands of jobs and guarantees a market for local farmers’ produce, including cassava, sorghum, and maize.

“The challenges of reviving the Benue Brewery remain, but the Food Basket Brewery is a proactive step forward,” Asemakaha explained.

He added, “Though full operations are expected next year, a contract brewing model ensures the immediate availability of Zeva Premium Lager, stimulating key sectors such as transportation, retail, and hospitality.”

The Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly, Chief Hyacinth Aondoana Dajoh, represented by Hon. Mathias Audu, commended BIPC’s efforts in boosting the state’s Internally Generated Revenue.

He pledged the assembly’s support for Governor Alia’s administration in delivering on its promises to the people of Benue.