By Winnie Onu, Makurdi
The Group Managing Director of Benue Investment and Property Company Limited (BIPC), Dr. Raymond Asemakaha, on Friday hosted renowned music icon Innocent “Tuface” Idibia at a high-profile partnership meeting at the company’s headquarters in Makurdi, aimed at boosting Benue’s economic and cultural visibility.
During the session, Dr. Asemakaha presented a range of BIPC’s locally produced goods, including Zeva Premium Beer, Oyi Bitters, bread, bip water, nails, and nylon to Tuface, affirming the company’s readiness to elevate Benue-made products to national and international markets.
“Soon our mangoes and oranges will not go out of Benue. We will create scarcity and stimulate the economy,” the GMD declared, expressing a bold economic vision that hinges on value-added local production.
“Your coming, Tuface, is giving us hope. We are ready to invest in anything that will bring returns, including Benue’s budding music industry. We as a state needs to reset our thinking to embrace business and investment rather than acquiring certificates” Dr. Asemakaha noted.
On his part,mTuface, who was accompanied by his team, described their visit as part of a broader mission to change the mindset of Benue youth and contribute to the state’s development.
He commended the BIPC leadership headed by Dr. Asemakaha for embracing creative initiatives and affirmed his commitment to helping take Benue products to the global market, especially through collaborations with local artists.
He said, “You are on the right track, you are a shining star and I’m proud of your initiatives. We can’t do outreach without you. You have the stars. Different people have different strengths, and we will work with the talents on the ground.”
BIPC’s Company Secretary, Josephat Ioryoosu Esq, urged the African Queen crooner to consider December for a flagship event that could become a permanent fixture in the state’s entertainment calendar, akin to Timaya’s yearly concert in Bayelsa State.
In response, Tuface promised to organise an annual entertainment event that would celebrate Benue’s cultural diversity and creative talent.
He further announced plans to reinvent traditional dances such as Kwaghir, Tsue Tsele amongst others to spice up entertainment activities in the state.
