Prof. Ikyo, Family Deliver Lifeline to IDPs.
By Raymond Enoch.
The family of Prof. Barnabas Ikyo, Director of the Centre for Food Technology and Research (CEFTER), MOAU (formerly BSU), has donated vital relief materials to hundreds of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Benue State, in a heartfelt outreach grounded in gratitude and compassion.
The donation, which included food items, toiletries, shoes, and clothing for men, women, and children, was presented directly to the displaced families with a clear message of solidarity and hope.
Speaking during the event, Prof. Ikyo said the gesture was his family’s modest way of giving back to the society, especially as he celebrates the successful completion of two tenures totaling 10 years as Director of CEFTER.
“We are here to share the little we have with the IDPs,” he said. “We thank God for the opportunity to serve and for sparing our lives to be of help to the needy.”
The Professor also expressed sorrow over the June 13 massacre in Yelewata, praying for healing for the wounded and strength for those displaced.
His wife, Mrs. Patience Achakpaikyo, Director General of Benue Television—who also recently concluded her 5-year tenure—commended the government’s role in creating a safe temporary shelter for the IDPs and acknowledged the scale of the humanitarian need.
“We appreciate the proactive approach of the government in handling this crisis,” she said. “It is our duty as citizens to complement these efforts wherever we can.”
Receiving the donations on behalf of Benue SEMA, Dr. Donald Komgbenda, Head of Administration, praised the Ikyos’ act as a “shining example of compassion and responsibility,” urging other well-meaning individuals and organizations to emulate their commitment.
Also present during the donation were Mrs. Josephine Boager, SSA to the Governor on the School Feeding Programme; Bridget Tikyaa, PSA to the Governor on Media, Publicity and Communication Strategy; alongside friends, relatives, and staff of CEFTER and Benue Television.
The event ended with prayers, songs, and expressions of gratitude from the IDPs, as the Ikyos reaffirmed their dedication to supporting the vulnerable in society.
