By Bethel Zuave

The Benue State Government has announced the final test run of the Bensono fruit processing factory, a major agro-industrial project under Governor Hyacinth Alia. The facility will process orange, mango, and tomato into concentrates ahead of full-scale production.

The Benue State Government has moved into the final technical phase of its flagship agro-processing initiative, with a test run scheduled for the Bensono fruit processing factory.

The development, announced under the administration of Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia, signals readiness for full-scale industrial production of orange, mango, and tomato concentrates in the state.

According to officials, the test run represents the last stage of system validation before operations commence at commercial scale. Once operational, the facility is expected to strengthen agricultural value chains and reduce post-harvest losses, long-standing challenges for farmers across Benue.

Stakeholders say the project could significantly improve market access for local farmers by providing a more structured and reliable off-take system. This is expected to translate into better pricing stability and increased incomes for producers.

For consumers, the factory is positioned to deliver locally processed, high-quality concentrates into the market, potentially reducing reliance on imported alternatives while boosting local industry capacity.

The initiative is also projected to create employment opportunities across multiple segments, including production, packaging, logistics, and distribution.

Government sources describe the project as part of a broader strategy to industrialise Benue’s agricultural sector linking farm output directly to processing and supply chains.

While expectations are high, observers note that sustained success will depend on efficient operations, consistent raw material supply, and market competitiveness once production begins.