From Scholastica Hir, Makurdi
Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Benue Investment and Property Company (BIPC), Raymond Asemakaha, has said the off-take of commodities from Benue farmers will significantly boost their GDP.
The managing director, who stated this during a TV business programme, said the initiative is part of BIPC’s efforts to address food insecurity and improve the economic conditions of farmers in the state.
He said the off-take programme involves buying farm produce directly from farmers, providing them with a stable market and fair prices for their goods.
He also said the approach is expected to increase farmers’ income, enhance their livelihoods, and contribute to the state’s economic growth.
According to him, BIPC plans to establish a warehouse receipt system, which will enable farmers to store their produce and receive payment based on the value of their stored commodities.
“This system will provide farmers with greater control over their produce and improve their bargaining power.”
The managing director also said the company’s brewery and fruit juice, bread, polythene, water, and nail companies are designed to have backward integration for local farmers as well as stimulate the economy and create jobs in line with the vision of Governor Hyacinth Alia.