The immediate past spokesperson of Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, has been honoured with the Media Diplomat of the Year 2026 Award at the 13th Bayelsa Media Awards (BMA) and Bayelsa @ 30 Special Anniversary Edition held in Yenagoa.
Ebienfa received the award during a ceremony that celebrated Bayelsans whose contributions have positively projected the state in the media, political and diplomatic spheres.
According to the organisers, the former foreign affairs spokesperson was selected after a review of young Bayelsans who have distinguished themselves in advancing the image and interests of Bayelsa State beyond Nigeria’s borders.
They said the award recognised his effective use of the media as a diplomatic tool, his representation of Bayelsa and Ijaw interests in national discourse, and his professionalism in managing sensitive public communications.
Presenting the award, the organisers described Ebienfa as a “true Media Diplomat”, noting that his articulate, strategic and influential approach to communication has strengthened engagement between the media, government and the international community.
They further stated that his contributions reflect a new generation of Ijaw diplomacy characterised by intelligence, composure and respect, particularly as Bayelsa marks 30 years of statehood and seeks stronger voices to tell its story globally.
Responding to the honour, Ebienfa expressed gratitude to the organisers, describing the recognition as a testament to the importance of strategic communication, professional integrity and media engagement in advancing Nigeria’s foreign policy objectives.
“I am deeply honoured to receive the Media Diplomat of the Year 2026 Award. 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.
The former ministry spokesperson noted that his experience in office reinforced his belief that successful diplomacy depends not only on negotiations and official engagements but also on clear, credible and timely communication that helps explain government policies and national positions to domestic and international audiences.
Ebienfa said media diplomacy has become increasingly important in a rapidly interconnected world, stressing that professional communication is essential for building public trust, countering misinformation and promoting mutual understanding.
He dedicated the award to professionals who use communication to advance peace, cooperation and understanding among nations. He was represented at the event by his foster son, Mr Woyengiowoi Precious Michael.
