Taraku Mills Limited has commenced test-run production in Benue State after receiving 300 tonnes of soybeans, marking a step towards reviving local agro-processing and creating market opportunities for farmers.
The resumption follows rehabilitation of the processing facility and the delivery of eight truckloads of soybeans to support initial operations.
The revival of the previously inactive plant forms part of Governor Hyacinth Alia’s agro-industrial development agenda, implemented through the Benue Investment and Property Company Limited (BIPC), to restore commercial production of Golden Soya Oil.
Speaking after inspecting the test run, BIPC Group Managing Director, Dr Raymond Asemakaha, said the state government intervened to reactivate the facility to address youth unemployment and provide a reliable market for locally produced agricultural commodities.
Asemakaha highlighted the employment challenges facing graduates in the state, citing 14,802 tertiary graduates in 2024 and 16,200 in 2025 who face limited job opportunities.
He said state-owned enterprises must generate tangible economic benefits rather than remain idle assets, adding that the company’s approach would focus on productive operations and commercial returns.
The BIPC chief also assured soybean, maize and other grain farmers of reliable market access through the factory, noting that consistent demand from processors could encourage increased production and improve farmers’ earnings.
According to the plant manager, Engr. James Tergu Ikuve, Taraku Mills has an installed processing capacity of 200 tonnes per day. However, the facility has begun operations at an initial capacity of 50 tonnes daily to allow the machinery to be gradually restored after years of inactivity.
The production process will begin with the purification of raw soybeans, followed by seed crushing and refining to produce the finished oil.
The company expects refined Golden Soya Oil to reach the consumer market before the end of October 2026.
The revival has also received support from community stakeholders. Youth leader Comrade Iortuhwa Richard commended the state government and BIPC for restoring the facility, noting that residents had helped protect the plant from vandalism in anticipation of its economic benefits.
The resumption of production could strengthen demand for locally grown soybeans, create employment opportunities and support businesses involved in agricultural supply, transportation and distribution.
For Benue’s agricultural sector, the plant’s return to operation offers an opportunity to strengthen the connection between farming and industrial processing, provided production can be sustained and reliable markets maintained for local farmers.