By Terdue Atondu, Makurdi
Taraku Mills in Benue State is 75 per cent ready to commence full-scale production, following an assessment by engineers from its Egyptian technical partner, AL WADI AL AKHDAR OIL MILLS, Asher, Cairo.
The team, led by Saleh Mansury, inspected the factory alongside officials of the Benue Investment and Property Company Limited (BIPC), with particular attention to the plant’s equipment, production systems and operational processes.
At the end of the inspection, Mansury expressed satisfaction with the state of the facility, saying only minor upgrades were required before production could begin at full capacity.
He said the outstanding 25 per cent work involved upgrading selected sections of the factory to meet modern technological standards.
Mansury specifically identified the boiler and solvent machine as areas requiring improvement, noting that the upgrades would enhance efficiency and lower energy consumption.
He assured that the Egyptian partner was ready to commence full-scale operations once the outstanding work was completed.
The team, he added, was also considering the introduction of additional production lines, particularly for cake production, to expand the factory’s output.
Mansury further urged farmers across Benue State to increase the production of soybeans, groundnuts and maize, which he identified as essential raw materials for the factory.
Also speaking, Engr. James Emmanuel described the facility as being in good condition and capable of efficient operation.
He said completing the required upgrades, especially those involving the boiler and solvent sections, would enable the factory to operate at full capacity.
The latest assessment is part of efforts by BIPC and its Egyptian partner to revive Taraku Mills, improve its production capacity and pave the way for the commencement of full-scale operations.
