BIPC Partners SONO Group to Revive Benue Fruit Juice Production

From Dooshima Terkura Makurdi

The Benue Investment and Property Company (BIPC) has entered into a strategic partnership with SONO Group Global, a Brazilian firm, to revive and reposition the Benue Fruit Juice Company ahead of its scheduled production in October.

Speaking during the reception of SONO Group representatives at the company’s headquarters on Monday, the Group Managing Director of BIPC, Dr. Raymond Asemakaha, described SONO as a reputable company with a balance sheet profit of over €60.6 million, ranking as a tier-1 player globally.

Dr. Asemakaha disclosed that the state-owned juice factory, located at the Industrial Layout, Makurdi, will soon lead in the production of fruit juice concentrate and biogas derived from factory residues. He emphasized that the collaboration marks a turning point in Benue’s efforts to add value to its abundant orange produce.

According to him, the partnership with SONO and Picama Group—set to last for 15 years—will significantly reduce post-harvest losses, create wealth for farmers, and stimulate the state economy.

“By investing in our orange produce, these investors are not only creating a stable market for our farmers but also reducing post-harvest losses by up to 80 percent,” Asemakaha stated. “This initiative will boost farmers’ income and livelihoods, create job opportunities for our youths, and enhance overall agricultural efficiency. It will also contribute to the state’s GDP and keep cash circulating within our system.”

He urged farmers and members of orange associations across the state to collaborate in ensuring the success of the project, adding that by the end of October, no orange from Benue would be transported elsewhere as the company will offtake 100 percent of the produce.

In his remarks, Chairman of SONO Group Global, Luiz Arenac, expressed confidence in Benue’s agricultural potential, assuring that the factory would deliver the same quality of production as in Europe.

“We will spare no effort to make this project succeed. Very soon, Nigeria’s fruit juice will take its place in the global market,” Arenac affirmed.