Benue State Government Inspects Moribund Briquetting Factory for Major Revitalization Project

Comr. Paul Akunda,

Makurdi, January 8, 2026

In a significant move to boost women’s empowerment and environmental sustainability, a joint inspection team from the Benue State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare (MWASW) and the Benue State Council on Climate Change has conducted a comprehensive assessment of the long-abandoned Briquetting Factory in Wadata, Makurdi.

The inspection, ordered by the Honourable Commissioner for MWASW, Hon. Mrs. Theresa Odachi Ikwue, is part of Governor Hyacinth Alia’s administration’s drive to revive dormant state assets for public benefit.

The team, led by Mrs. Magdalene Andor, Director Women Affairs MWASW and Dr. Daniel Maailumo DG, Benue Climate Change Council, found the factory’s structures standing but in need of major rehabilitation. The Factory was established during the Military regime but abandoned by previous administrations

Key machinery is present but requires a full technical audit after years of disuse.

Officials highlighted the factory’s transformative potential. Its revival is set to achieve a triple victory for the state:

1. Women & Youth Empowerment: Creating direct employment, skills training, and entrepreneurship opportunities.

2. Climate Action: Producing eco-friendly briquettes as alternatives to firewood, reducing deforestation and emissions.

3. Waste-to-Wealth: Using abundant agricultural waste like rice husks as raw material.

The team has recommended immediate actions, including forming a Technical Task Force, developing a phased revitalization plan, and seeking strategic partnerships to bring the factory back to life.

“The Wadata Briquetting Factory is a golden opportunity to advance economic inclusion and environmental conservation simultaneously,” the report concluded. “Its revival is a testament to this administration’s dedication to pragmatic governance and sustainable development.”