Governor Hyacinth Alia Cites National Food City Project as Strategic Pillar for Benue South Economic Inclusivity

Benue Governor Hyacinth Alia explains the Otukpo National Food City Project as a landmark PPP aimed at industrializing agriculture and ensuring state inclusivity.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 25, 2026, 6:55 AM EDT

Source: The information in this article was sourced from LEADERSHIP

A Deliberate Strategy for Regional Integration

Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has framed the establishment of the National Food City Project in Otukpo as a cornerstone of his administration’s commitment to statewide inclusivity. Speaking at a Diaspora Townhall meeting held on Saturday, March 21, 2026, the governor emphasized that locating this multi-billion naira investment in the Benue South Senatorial District, or Zone C, was an intentional policy choice. By placing a major industrial asset in this region, the administration seeks to dispel concerns regarding the lopsided distribution of development, asserting that the state’s resources are being equitably managed to benefit all three senatorial zones.

Technical Scope of the Agri-Industrial Hub

The National Food City Project is envisioned as a massive integrated agri-industrial complex designed to revolutionize the state’s primary economic sector. According to a statement from the governor’s spokesperson, Sir Tersoo Kula, the development will involve the cultivation of over 30,000 hectares of mechanized farmland. Beyond mere primary production, the site will house advanced agro-processing facilities dedicated to staple crops such as rice, maize, soybeans, and cassava. This infrastructure is intended to transform Benue from a traditional farming state into a modern industrial hub that adds significant value to raw agricultural products before they reach the market.

Infrastructure Sustainability and Renewable Power

To ensure the long-term viability of the site, the project includes a comprehensive suite of complementary infrastructure designed for total self-sufficiency. Governor Alia revealed that the complex will feature its own renewable energy network with a generation capacity of up to 25 megawatts, specifically intended to power on-site industrial operations. Furthermore, the development plan encompasses staff housing, medical clinics, internal road networks, and extensive warehouse facilities. These additions are designed to create a sustainable ecosystem that can support a large workforce and maintain continuous operations without straining existing municipal services.