…dedicates honour to communication professionals advancing diplomacy and international cooperation
By Gloria Ikibah 
The immediate past spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, has won the Media Diplomat of the Year Award at the 13th edition of the Bayelsa Media Awards held in Yenagoa.
The award was presented on Thursday, October 8, 2026, as part of activities marking the 30th anniversary of Bayelsa State.
Ebienfa, who was represented at the ceremony by his foster son, Woyengiowoi Precious Michael, was recognised for his use of strategic communication to advance diplomacy, promote Bayelsa and Ijaw interests, and strengthen engagement between the media, government and the international community.
The organisers said the award followed a review of young Bayelsans who had distinguished themselves in projecting the image and interests of the state beyond its borders.
They described Ebienfa as a “true Media Diplomat”, citing his approach to public communication, his handling of sensitive political issues and his contribution to diplomatic engagement.
The organisers also said his work reflected a new generation of Ijaw diplomacy characterised by intelligence, composure and respect.
In his reaction, Ebienfa expressed appreciation to the organisers, describing the recognition as an encouragement to uphold professionalism and integrity 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.
“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”, he said.
The former spokesperson said media diplomacy had become increasingly important in an interconnected world, where public perception, information management and international engagement could significantly influence relations among nations.
He stressed that professional communication was essential to building public trust, countering misinformation, promoting mutual understanding and projecting Nigeria’s interests and values internationally.
Ebienfa commended the award organisers for providing a platform to recognise individuals whose work had contributed to the media and communication sector.
He also thanked media practitioners, colleagues in the foreign service, mentors, friends and associates who had supported his professional journey, noting that collaboration was important to achieving meaningful results in public communication and diplomacy.
Describing the award as a personal milestone, he said it also highlighted the collective efforts of institutions and professionals working to strengthen Nigeria’s public diplomacy and international engagement.
He added that the recognition would encourage him to maintain the principles of professionalism, accuracy, accountability and constructive engagement in his future work.
Ebienfa reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening media diplomacy, promoting effective communication and supporting efforts to improve Nigeria’s international image, advance its national interests and deepen engagement with the global community.
He dedicated the award to professionals who use communication to promote understanding, peace and cooperation among peoples and nations.
The Bayelsa Media Awards is an annual event that recognises individuals and organisations for their contributions to the media, public service and development of Bayelsa State.
