In the quiet hills of Jos, the cool Plateau breeze whispers through very tall grasses that now cover what used to be a very busy place. There, amidst some rusting tanks and damaged walls, is the old Jos International Breweries building (JIB)—a real giant from the past. The JIB is full of stories waiting to be heard again. However, this place is beyond mere bricks and metal; it’s a part of Plateau State’s rich history.
The Jos International Breweries is a great symbol of the hard work and dreams that helped us build our community. Every time we look at the faded glory of JIB, we don’t just see decay; we see an opportunity for a new beginning. This is the story of an old factory that is ready to be brought back to life and a call to tourists and investors to join the Plateau’s bright future.
A Glorious Past: The Birth of Jos International Breweries
Back in 1975, under Joseph Gomwalk’s leadership, Plateau State witnessed the creation of Jos International Breweries, or JIB as locals still call it. It started with the idea of creating jobs and boosting the economy of the State. Imagine this: loaded trucks bringing in fresh barley from nearby farms, group of workers chatting as they bottled Nigeria’s favourite, Rock Lager Beer.
The Jos International Brewery used to make over a million hectoliters each year. This made it one of the top companies in the country. It partnered with BARC Farms, which was primarily set up to grow barley right here in Jos Plateau. But why Jos? The combination of high altitude and chill weather are perfect for barley, and it makes our Plateau land a natural supporter of the brewery.
Farmers from different parts of the state also joined in. In 1989, JIB launched a program where locals offered their land and labor, in return, the brewery provided the seeds and all tools needed. It was like a big community working together, and it created a lot of opportunities; Young people got employment, families steadily earned, and Plateau’s crops fed the nation. JIB bought tons of local grains, this helped small farms do well. This was far beyond business; it was community building. Tales from older people who used to work there include: tales of lively work shifts, the smell of fermenting barley in the air, and the pride in producing something truly Plateau-made.
The Slow Fade: Challenges and Abandonment
However, like many good things, challenges came. Changes in the economy, bans on imports, and management issues really hit the company so hard. And by the early 2000s, work slowed down. BARC Farms was sold to private owners which was a move that confused a lot of people. The brewery, which was once full of life, became quiet, its machines covered in dust. Today, the JIB is listed as one of Plateau State’s abandoned projects, along with others like the Highland Bottling Company. The buildings are all empty, the windows are broken, and you’ll see vines climbing up the walls as nature is slowly taking over.
Whenever you walk around the site now, you feel how much time has passed. The tall silos, which used to signify progress, now create long shadows over cracked concrete. The empty warehouses hold echoes of laughter from workers who are long gone. It’s a depressing sight, but still beautiful. The way sunlight shines through the gaps, paints golden patterns on the now rusty pipes. This old site reminds us of Plateau State’s industrial energy. It reminds us of the time Jos was a major player in Nigeria’s brewing world. Still, it’s not totally depressing. These structures tell stories of strength, of people who built something great from nothing.
An Industrial Relic: More Than Just Ruins
What makes the Jos International Brewery a true relic? This old giant is like an open-air museum, because every brick holds history—from the 1970s boom to the initiatives that connected farms to factories. When tourists visit the site, they can walk there, imagining the sound of bottles on conveyor belts and the loud hum of machines. The JIB is not just an old building; it’s an image of Nigeria’s effort to rely on itself for industry.
Look closer: the design shows an intelligent plan for brewing in a special climate like ours. The BARC Farms (not far off), now being discussed for a comeback, adds to the whole story. The empty frames of the milling areas are gentle reminders of the processed farm goods that fed the brewery. This old building shows how Plateau State perfectly combined farming and industry. It’s a relic because it still waits patiently, preserved by time, preserved for people who will see its potential rather than just its decay.
And Plateau State has more similar treasures. Our state is blessed with lots of amazing things—the beautiful hills, fresh air, and welcoming people. The real story of Plateau State is one of peace, beauty, and opportunity. Jos, blessed with mild weather, is like a hidden paradise, perfect for getting away from busy cities.
Waiting for Revival: Opportunities for Tourists and Investors
Now, this is the exciting part: this old factory does not have to stay abandoned. The Plateau government planned to fix up JIB and BARC, setting aside land and money to bring back jobs and growth. In 2017, 3 billion Naira was approved to buy back BARC Farms, with the goal of restarting farm research and supporting brewing.
If you are a tourist, imagine a guided tour through the site, learning about the history of brewing while enjoying local drinks at a café. The JIB could become a heritage site, that mixes learning with fun. Imagine a festival celebrating Plateau’s brews, attracting visitors from far away. The cool Jos climate is perfect for outdoor events, and this adds to our tourism appeal.
Reviving Means Big Opportunities.
Plateau State can restart brewing with a modern twist. Imagine crafting beers using our local ingredients. Or turn parts of the JIB to industrial parks for new businesses. Plateau’s unmatched location, coupled with our good roads and natural resources, makes it fantastic for business. Think about centers for agro-processing linked to BARC, exporting Plateau produce nationwide. This is not just about profit; it’s about partnering with a state that is growing, where new ideas blend with tradition.
Recent talks of reviving old sites across Nigeria will also happen here. Plateau is leading the way with actions that include improving Jos Rock Hotel and the Jos Main Market. This forgotten brewery could be the next success story showing our resilience and comeback. And don’t forget: Plateau is safe, welcoming, and full of hidden potential. Come see the markets, fresh strawberries, tomatoes, black olives, Plateau Potatoes, and other products from our farms, and you’ll feel the warmth of our people.
Discover Plateau’s True Heart
As we end this look at the abandoned Jos International Breweries, we should remember that it’s more than an old forgotten building. It’s an old site full of energy, waiting to be brought back to life. Plateau State is indeed a land of beauty, rich history, and promise. Tourists, pack your bags for wonderful adventures in our hills. Investors, come with your ideas—let’s build together.