The Group Managing Director (GMD) of Benue Investment and Property Company Limited (BIPC), Dr Raymond Asemakaha, has directed an immediate asset optimisation of the Wannune Tomato Factory with a view to rescuing the company.
The Wannune tomato plant was established by the administration of former Governor George Akume, but never took off and has been lying waste since 2007.
Dr Asemakaha, who undertook an inspection tour of the facility on Thursday, October 30, after commissioning BIPC Bakery in Gboko, expressed concern over the extent of vandalism at the site.
He said Italian technicians would be engaged to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the factory’s assets, providing a guide for the next steps toward reviving the company.
The GMD is optimistic that, when operational, the Wannune Tomato Factory will boost local economic activities, create employment opportunities, and enhance value addition for tomato farmers.
Tomato is planted in large quantities in Gboko, Tarka, and Buruku Local Government Areas (LGAs) of the state
