By Chiangi Avese, Makurdi
The Benue State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Benjamin Ashaver, has pledged the Ministry’s commitment to partnering with the National Brand Development and Made-in-Nigeria Special Project (PNBDP), Benue State Chapter, to advance the promotion of Made-in-Benue products globally.
Ashaver made this known on Monday in Makurdi while receiving members of the PNBDP delegation led by the Benue State Coordinator, Hon. Ikon Oraduen, during a familiarization visit to his office.
The Commissioner commended the initiative for projecting Benue State positively through the promotion of its unique products and agricultural potential, noting that collaboration between the Ministry and the organization would further strengthen efforts aimed at showcasing Benue products to wider markets.
Statement by Head, Information Unit of the Ministry, Mr. Ahokegh Terkimbi said, “the proposed launch of the special Benue Rice brand would mark a significant milestone in the state government’s determination to combat hunger in Nigeria and position Benue prominently in the global food production”.
Ashaver assured the team of the Ministry’s readiness to work closely with the initiative and the Director General of BNAGRO, Pharm. Peter Chieshe, to actualize the vision of the project in line with the agricultural development objectives of the Benue State Government.
“Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia’s administration through the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, remains committed to partnering with relevant organizations and stakeholders to ensure that agricultural produce and livestock from the state are fully showcased to attract both local and international investments”, Dr. Ashaver said.
Earlier, the State Programme Coordinator of the initiative, Hon. Ikon Oraduen (OD Woods), stated that the visit was aimed at formally introducing the office and its team to the Ministry in order to seek collaboration and technical support for the successful implementation of the project.
“The initiative is focused on identifying and promoting goods, products, and services made in Benue State, making them more visible for patronage and creating opportunities for investment, particularly within the agricultural sector”.
According to him, the project seeks to market products originating from Benue State, with special emphasis on agricultural produce, in order to attract direct and indirect investments that would boost productivity and improve livelihoods across the state.
Also present at the meeting were the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Pharm. Elijah Ogaagbenu, alongside key directors including the Director of Livestock and Veterinary Services, Dr. Gabriel Amase, and the Director of Planning, Research and Statistics, Mr. Edache Enichola.
