The immediate past Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, has been honoured with the prestigious Media Diplomat of the Year Award at the 13th edition of the Bayelsa Media Awards and Bayelsa @ 30 Special Anniversary Edition, held on Thursday in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.
The award was presented at a ceremony celebrating outstanding Bayelsans whose contributions have projected the state positively in the diplomatic, political and media spheres.
According to the organisers, Ebienfa was selected following a review of young Bayelsans who have distinguished themselves in projecting the image and interests of Bayelsa State beyond its shores.
The award specifically recognises his astute use of the media as a tool for diplomacy, eloquent representation of Bayelsa and Ijaw interests in national discourse, professionalism in handling sensitive political communications, and growing influence as a bridge between the media, government and the international community.
In presenting the honour, the organisers described Ebienfa as a “true Media Diplomat,” noting his articulate, strategic and influential approach to public communication and diplomacy.
The organisers further noted that his contributions exemplify a new generation of Ijaw diplomacy characterised by intelligence, composure and respect, particularly at a time when Bayelsa is marking 30 years of statehood and seeking effective voices to tell its story to the wider world.
Speaking at the occasion, the organisers expressed confidence that the recognition would encourage continued excellence in the use of media and strategic communication to advance diplomacy, public understanding and the interests of Bayelsa State and Nigeria.
The Bayelsa Media Awards is an annual platform recognising individuals and organisations that have made notable contributions to the media, public service and development of Bayelsa State.
Reacting to the honour, Mr. Ebienfa, who was represented by his foster son, Mr. Woyengiowoi Precious Michael, expressed appreciation to the organisers and described the recognition as a testament to the importance of strategic communication, professional integrity and media engagement in advancing Nigeria’s foreign policy objectives and strengthening the country’s image before the international community.
”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.
”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. 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 has become increasingly important in an interconnected world where public perception, information management and international engagement significantly influence relations among nations.
He stressed that professional communication remains essential to building public trust, countering misinformation, promoting mutual understanding and projecting Nigeria’s interests and values on the global stage.
Mr. Ebienfa commended the organisers for recognising excellence and creating a platform to celebrate individuals whose professional contributions have made meaningful impacts in the media and communication landscape, and expressed appreciation to media practitioners, colleagues in the foreign service, mentors, friends and associates who supported his professional journey.
He described the award as a personal milestone that also reflects the collective importance of institutions, professionals and stakeholders working to strengthen Nigeria’s public diplomacy and international engagement, reaffirming his commitment to promoting effective communication and contributing to efforts aimed at enhancing Nigeria’s image and advancing its national interests.
He dedicated the award to all professionals who continue to deploy communication as an instrument for promoting understanding, peace and cooperation among peoples and nations.