By Peter Duru, Makurdi

Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue state has unveiled Zeva Lager Beer produced by the Benue Investment and Property Company, BIPC, describing the venture as a reaffirmation of the  commitment of his government to repositioning the state as a beacon of industrial growth and opportunity in the country.

Performing the unveiling Sunday night in Makurdi, the Governor commended the Dr. Raymond Asemakaha-led management ans staff of BIPC pointing out that their relentless efforts, dedication, and commitment brought about the historic moment.

He stated that “Zeva Premium Lager Beer is not just a product; it is a symbol of your hard work and the aspirations of our people.

“The decision to embark on the construction of the Food Basket Brewery reflects the vision of this administration to leverage Benue State’s immense agricultural resources to drive industrial growth. As the “Food Basket of the Nation,” Benue is endowed with abundant agricultural produce, yet the state has not fully capitalized on its potential for agro-based industrialization.

“The brewery will create a sustainable value chain, turning agricultural raw materials like casava, sorghum, millet and maize into high-value products. This venture is more than a business; it is an economic strategy to boost our Internally Generated Revenue, IGR, reducing dependence on federal allocations,  Create jobs for our teeming youth, addressing unemployment and fostering economic stability, empower our farmers by providing a guaranteed market for their produce.

“The brewery will also serve as a model for innovation and industrial excellence, positioning Benue as an attractive destination for both local and international investors.”

Earlier, the Managing Director of BIPC, who lauded Governor Alia for driving the economic transformation of the state noted that the unveiled product would contribute significantly to the socio-economic development of the state.

According to him, “Zeva Premium Lager Beer represents more than just a new product. It is a symbol of innovation, resilience, and the indomitable Benue spirit. As we unveil this premium beer today, we do so with the knowledge that it will contribute significantly to the socio-economic development of our dear state in several critical ways.

Dr. Asemakaha said the venture would directly contribute to boost the IGR of the state, create employment opportunities, encourage farmers in the state to produce raw materials for the brew and boost economic activities in the state.

He stated that Zeva Beer “is more than just a drink; it is a celebration of the Benue spirit—a spirit of resilience, determination, and excellence. This beer embodies the essence of our people and our land. It is a reminder that, together, we can overcome challenges and chart a path toward greatness.

“As we launch Zeva Premium Lager Beer today, I assure the good people of Benue that this is only the beginning. BIPC is committed to driving initiatives that will uplift our people, create wealth, and foster development. From agriculture to real estate, manufacturing to commerce, we will continue to identify and invest in opportunities that will transform the socio-economic landscape of our state.”