Ebienfa Bags Media Diplomat Award At Bayelsa @ 30 Celebration

The Immediate past spokesperson of Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimieibi Imomotimi Ebienfa, has won the Media Diplomat of the Year Award at the 13th Bayelsa Media Awards, held as part of activities marking the state’s 30th anniversary.

The award recognised his role in strategic communication, media diplomacy and the projection of Bayelsa and Ijaw interests in national discourse.

The organisers said they selected Ebienfa for his professional handling of sensitive political communication and his growing influence in connecting the media, government and the international community.

They described him as a “true Media Diplomat”, citing his articulate, strategic and influential approach to public communication.

The organisers also said his work reflected a new generation of Ijaw diplomacy built on intelligence, composure and respect. The recognition came as Bayelsa marked three decades of statehood and sought to project its achievements and identity to a wider audience.

In his response, Ebienfa expressed appreciation to the organisers, describing the award as encouragement to uphold professional standards in strategic communication and media diplomacy.

“I am deeply honoured to receive the Media Diplomat of the Year 2026 award from the organisers of the Bayelsa Media Award at its 13th edition. I regard this recognition as both an encouragement and a call to greater responsibility in the practice of strategic communication and media diplomacy,” he said.

Ebienfa explained that his time as spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs gave him the opportunity to communicate Nigeria’s foreign policy priorities and explain the country’s positions on regional and international issues.

“Serving as Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs provided me with the opportunity to contribute to the communication of Nigeria’s foreign policy priorities, engage with the media and help articulate the country’s positions on issues of regional and international importance,” he said.

“That experience reinforced my conviction that effective diplomacy depends not only on negotiations and official engagements but also on clear, credible and timely communication.”

He noted that media diplomacy had become increasingly important in a connected world where public perception and information management could influence relations among nations.

According to him, professional communication helps build public trust, counter misinformation, promote mutual understanding and project Nigeria’s interests on the global stage.

Ebienfa commended the organisers for celebrating professionals whose contributions have shaped the media and communication landscape. He also thanked media practitioners, colleagues in the foreign service, mentors, friends and associates who supported his career.

Although he described the award as a personal milestone, he said it also recognised the collective efforts of institutions and professionals working to strengthen Nigeria’s public diplomacy and international engagement.

He pledged to uphold professionalism, accuracy, accountability and constructive engagement in his future work, while contributing to efforts to improve Nigeria’s image and deepen its relations with the international community.

Ebienfa dedicated the award to communication professionals who use their skills to promote understanding, peace and cooperation among peoples and nations.

He was represented at the ceremony in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, by his foster son, Woyengiowoi Precious Michael.

The Bayelsa Media Awards is an annual platform that recognises individuals and organisations for their contributions to the media, public service and development of the state.