Chinese Geologists Begin Assessment of Star Cement Factory in Igumale, Benue State
By Onwe Wisdom|Pan Afric Reporters, Ado, Benue State
Ado Local Government in Benue State on Monday, August 25, 2025, welcomed two Chinese geologists, Mr. Seoul Hong and Mr. Lou You, who arrived to begin a comprehensive assessment of the Igumale Cement Factory and the proposed Star Cement site.
The experts, representing the Chinese partners in the Benue State Government’s joint venture, are tasked with evaluating the availability and quality of raw materials, identifying potential geological hazards, and ensuring the long-term environmental sustainability of the project. Their findings are expected to determine the feasibility and viability of reviving the abandoned factory.
The visit according to a press release e-signed by the Principal Private Secretary to Ado council chairman, Innocent Igelle comes shortly after an inspection tour by Ado Local Government Chairman, Engr. Sunny Oche, who recently assessed the damage caused by a bushfire that ravaged sections of the long-neglected factory. The fire destroyed significant parts of the facility’s infrastructure and machinery. Engr. Oche’s intervention, backed by Governor Rev. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, has been instrumental in accelerating efforts to restore the plant.
Originally conceived in 2001 during the administration of former Governor George Akume, the Star Cement project is a 60/40 equity partnership between the Benue State Government and its Chinese counterpart. Once operational, the factory is projected to produce 600,000 tons of cement annually and create an estimated 100,000 jobs across the state.
During their visit, the Chinese geologists met with Engr. Oche at the Local Government Secretariat Complex in Igumale. The meeting, which was also attended by the Director General, Services and Administration (DGSA), Mr. Edoh Benjamin, underscored the collaborative relationship between Ado Local Government and the state government in driving industrial and economic development.
The revival of the Igumale Cement Factory, according to officials, is expected to boost job creation, strengthen local industries, and improve the economic fortunes of Ado and Benue State as a whole.
