By Peter Duru, Makurdi

The Benue State Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding, MoU, with ABIS Livestock Processing Limited for the construction of a fully automated Abattoir in the state.

Speaking at the signing ceremony in Makurdi, the Secretary to the State Government, SSG, Mrs. Deborah Aber said the coming of the project reaffirmed Governor Hyacinth Alia’s economic transformation agenda.

She emphasized the project’s potential “to industrialize agriculture, improve hygiene standards, and position Benue as a key player in regional and international meat markets.

“The project marks a significant milestone in modernizing the meat processing value chain, enhancing food security, and creating economic opportunities for the state.”

She said the MoU signified the beginning of a transformative journey for Benue’s livestock industry, reinforcing the state’s reputation as Nigeria’s agricultural powerhouse.

“The facility would integrate cutting-edge technology for efficient slaughtering, processing, packaging, and cold storage, meeting both local and international standards. With thousands of direct and indirect jobs expected.”

The Director General of the Bureau of Livestock Development and Transboundary Animal Diseases Control, Dr. Aondoakaa Asambe noted that the project was a long-awaited breakthrough in addressing inefficiencies in meat processing in the state.

He recalled his December 2024 tour of slaughter slabs across the state, during which the government promised to establish a world-class abattoir and upskill workers in the sector.

The Chairman of ABIS Livestock Processing, Mr. Emmanuel Usman described the project as “a game-changer that would introduce modern processing techniques, reduce post-slaughter losses, and create a structured market for livestock farmers.”

Also present at the signing were the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Fidelis Mnyim, and the Executive Secretary of the Benue Investment Promotion Agency, BENIPA, Mr. Terhemen Kpenkaan.

Mr. Mnyim who commended the legal framework supporting the agreement, assured investors of the state’s commitment to upholding contractual obligations.

While the Executive Secretary of BENIPA  stressed the project’s investment potential, noting that “it aligns with Benue’s broader strategy to attract private sector participation in agribusiness and industrial development.”

Under the terms of the MoU, the Benue state government would provide land, facilitate essential infrastructure and regulatory approvals, and ensure security for the project.

The Bureau of Livestock Development and Transboundary Animal Diseases Control would oversee the project’s implementation while ABIS Group, would be responsible for designing and constructing the facility, fund the project entirely and manage its operations in partnership with the state government before transferring its ownership after 15 years.