The Benue State University (BSU) Centre for Food Technology and Research (CEFTER) Thursday marked its 10th anniversary and expressed the desire to continue shaping Africa’s food security landscape through innovation, community engagement, and academic excellence.
CEFTER is a project funded by the World Bank. Over the years, the Food Technology Innovation Complex (CEFTIC), funded by the World Bank’s ACE Impact project, boasts of six mini factories producing high-quality cassava flour products and tomato paste.
Speaking during the occasion, Vice Chancellor of the university, Prof. Joe Tor Iorapuu, praised the Benue state government, World Bank, AFD France, National Universities Commission (NUC), and Association of African Universities (AAU) for their support.
He acknowledged the contributions of former vice chancellors which he said had paved way for the project to succeed.
He said BSU aims to sustain CEFTER projects through alternative measures as the current project concludes.
He reaffirms the university’s commitment to excellence in higher education, research, and innovation.
Professor Iorapuu also said over 30 international students from 10 West and Central African countries had enrolled in CEFTER’s postgraduate programmes, funded 25 start-ups in partnership with UNDP and FCMB and brought on board leadership factory model to ensure team effectiveness and collaboration.
Director of CEFTER, Dr. Barnabas Achakpa Ikyo, expressed commitment to economic development, food security, and sustainable practices.
He disclosed that CEFTER Foods Nigeria Ltd, a subsidiary of the centre has generated over $1 million in revenue over the past decade.
