Elizabeth Joseph, Yenagoa
The usually quiet new survival hospital road in Igbogene Epie Bayalsa state came alive with laughter, songs, and spontaneous dancing as women and youths gathered to celebrate an act of kindness on the eve of the festive season,what appeared to be a simple community meeting quickly turned into a moment of relief, dignity, and renewed hope for many families.
Food items and portions of cow meat were shared freely among residents through the generosity of Mr. Tonyikiri, who was represented by his chief security officer, Mr. Lucas Nicodamus. For the beneficiaries, the gesture arrived at just the right time when rising costs and tight household budgets threatened to dim the joy of the season.
Speaking on behalf of Mr. Tonyikiri, Mr. Nicodamus said the outreach was a deliberate effort to give back to society, a value learned from the late prophet T.B. Joshua of the Synagogue church of All Nations.
“He emphasized that giving should be a way of life, especially during a season that symbolizes love, compassion, and togetherness,this is not a time to be sorrowful, but to be cheerful,” he noted.”
“According to giving is very important, and we must all cultivate the habit of touching lives,he also encouraged women and youths in the street to remain prayerful and to emulate the spirit of generosity by helping others whenever possible.
For many residents, the atmosphere was one of gratitude and unity,conversations flowed easily as smiles replaced worry, and several beneficiaries quietly spoke of how meaningful it was to be remembered at such a crucial time.
Chief Mrs. Ukpangere Iyedimor Mercy, the Ibe Telemoere of Egbesubiri Arogbo, described the initiative as one driven by passion, compassion, and a genuine desire to uplift others,she stressed that the festive season should not deepen hardship but create moments of shared joy.
According to her, Mr. Tonyikiri has consistently distributed rice to residents for the past seven years since moving to the street,some people are even richer than him but cannot do what he has done,” she said, praising his unwavering commitment to the welfare of the street.
Mrs. Mercy further expressed gratitude for the inclusion of cow meat in this year’s distribution, noting that residents would not have to worry about buying meat for the celebration,he gave a whole cow it was a complete package,” she said, adding that his generosity often extends beyond public gestures to personal interventions and targeted assistance.
Also speaking, Mrs. Seigha Samuel Braemi commended Mr. Tonyikiri for his steady, people centered approach, praying that God would replenish his resources and enable him to do even more in the coming year.
Many beneficiaries did not hide their appreciation. Mrs. Ebi, a mother of four, said the support lifted a heavy burden off her shoulders,this food means my children will celebrate with joy, she said with a smile,“God will reward him.”