The Nigeria Union of Journalists NUJ, Benue State Council on Wednesday held a valedictory session in honour of late Terlumun Nyifyan, former Chairman of the council, retired Director in the Ministry of Information and Orientation, and ex- Editor of The Voice Newspaper.
Colleagues, family members, friends, and sympathizers gathered with “heavy hearts but in gratitude to God for the life and legacy” of the veteran journalist, describing him as a professional whose commitment to journalism, civil service, and union development remained exemplary till his last days.
Chairman of NUJ Benue State Council, Comrade Bemdoo Ugber, led tributes, praising Nyifyan as a consummate professional who served with dedication, integrity, and uncommon passion.
“Late Nyifyan was a consummate professional whose commitment to journalism, civil service and the development of the Union remained exemplary throughout his lifetime. He served with dedication, integrity and uncommon passion, leaving indelible footprints in the media industry and inspiring generations of journalists in Benue State and beyond,” Comrade Ugber said.
He noted that beyond professional contributions, Nyifyan was remembered for his humility, wisdom, mentorship, and “unwavering belief in truth and justice.”
“As we bid him farewell, we remember not only his contributions to the profession but also his humility, wisdom, mentorship and unwavering belief in truth and justice. His life reminds us that true greatness lies in service to humanity and commitment to noble ideals,” Ugber added.
On behalf of the union, he extended condolences to Nyifyan’s wife, family, friends, and members, praying for God’s comfort: “We pray that God grants his soul eternal rest and give all of us the strength to bear this irreparable loss. May his legacy continue to inspire us. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace. Amen.”
On his part, Editor of The Voice Newspaper, Solomon Ayado, described Nyifyan as an “editor of editors” whose work ethic was worthy of emulation. “We are saddened by his departure but we are however consoled by the promise of our Lord Jesus Christ that those who died in Him shall resurrect in Him and live for eternity,” Ayado said.
NUJ National Vice President, Zone D, Alhaji Adeiza Momoh, described Nyifyan as “a man of the people,” pointing to the large turnout at the valedictory session as proof. He urged those in positions of authority to use their time to make a positive mark.
Former NUJ Benue Chairman and House of Representatives Member, Chief Goddy Ikyereve, eulogized Nyifyan as a diligent and down-to-earth leader. “He was a man who did his work diligently. He was down to earth. Death is a necessary end for all men,” he said, praying for God’s comfort for the family.
Sylvester Orlaade, who served as Secretary of NUJ during Nyifyan’s chairmanship, poured encomiums on his former boss, calling him a good leader who worked hard to reposition the union. The two shared a close bond, he revealed: “We used to call ourselves ‘Bokiwam’ meaning ‘my friend.’” He prayed for strength for Nyifan’s family.
Responding on behalf of the family, Mrs Rose Terwase Nyifyan, who was brief but emotional, thanked the union for its love and support. “On behalf of my family, we appreciate the NUJ for the love and concern they demonstrated. We are really consoled by your comforting words and prayers and we are deeply appreciative as a family,” she said.
Nyifyan’s career spanned decades in Benue’s media and public service space, where he mentored many reporters and editors now practicing across Nigeria. His legacy of truth, service, and mentorship will continue to shape journalism in the state.
