General News
Ex-Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Ebienfa Wins Media Diplomat of the Year Award
By Iyojo Ameh
Former Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, has won the Media Diplomat of the Year Award at the 13th Bayelsa Media Awards, held in Yenagoa on Thursday, October 8, 2026.
The award, presented during the special edition commemorating Bayelsa State’s 30th anniversary, recognised Ebienfa’s contributions to strategic communication, media diplomacy and the projection of Bayelsa and Ijaw interests in national and international discourse.
According to the organisers, Ebienfa emerged as a recipient following a review of young Bayelsans who have distinguished themselves in promoting the state’s image and interests beyond its shores.
The organisers cited his use of the media as a tool for diplomacy, professionalism in handling sensitive political communications and role in bridging the gap between the media, government and the international community.
They described him as a “true Media Diplomat”, noting his articulate and strategic approach to public communication and diplomacy.
The organisers added that his professional contributions reflected a new generation of Ijaw diplomacy characterised by intelligence, composure and respect.
Reacting to the recognition, Ebienfa expressed appreciation to the organisers, describing the award as both an encouragement and a call to greater responsibility 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.
Reflecting on his tenure as spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ebienfa said the experience provided an opportunity to contribute to communicating Nigeria’s foreign policy priorities and articulating 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.”
The former spokesperson noted that media diplomacy had become increasingly important in an interconnected world where public perception, information management and international engagement influence relations among nations.
He stressed that professional communication remained essential to building public trust, countering misinformation, promoting mutual understanding and projecting Nigeria’s interests and values internationally.
Ebienfa also commended the organisers for creating a platform to recognise individuals and organisations making notable contributions to the media, public service and development of Bayelsa State.
He expressed gratitude to media practitioners, colleagues in the foreign service, mentors, friends and associates who supported his professional journey, acknowledging the role of collaboration in advancing public communication and diplomacy.
Describing the award as a personal milestone, he said the recognition also highlighted the collective efforts of institutions and professionals working to strengthen Nigeria’s public diplomacy and international engagement.
He reaffirmed his commitment to professionalism, accuracy, accountability and constructive engagement, adding that he would continue to support initiatives aimed at improving Nigeria’s international image and advancing its national interests.
Ebienfa dedicated the award to professionals who use communication to promote understanding, peace and cooperation among peoples and nations.
He was represented at the ceremony by his foster son, Woyengiowoi Precious Michael.
The Bayelsa Media Awards is an annual event that recognises individuals and organisations for their contributions to media development, public service and the advancement of Bayelsa State.