Kimieibi Ebienfa, immediate past spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has won the Media Diplomat of the Year Award at the 13th edition of the Bayelsa Media Awards.
The award was presented at a ceremony in Yenagoa on September 8, 2026, as part of activities marking the 30th anniversary of Bayelsa State.
Ebienfa was recognised for his strategic communication efforts in advancing diplomacy, projecting Bayelsa and Ijaw interests, and promoting Nigeria’s image within the international community.
The organisers said he emerged from a review of young Bayelsans who had distinguished themselves in projecting the state beyond its shores, citing his handling of sensitive political communications, professional engagement with the media and ability to bridge government, journalists and the international community.
Describing him as a “true Media Diplomat,” the organisers said his approach to public communication reflected the growing influence of Ijaw professionals committed to advancing their communities and state through diplomacy, composure and strategic engagement.
In his reaction, Ebienfa described the recognition 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 role provided him with the opportunity to communicate Nigeria’s foreign policy priorities, engage with the media and articulate the country’s positions on regional and international issues.
“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 added.
He noted that media diplomacy had become increasingly important in an interconnected world, where public perception, information management and international engagement significantly influence relations among nations.
According to him, professional communication remains essential to building public trust, countering misinformation, promoting mutual understanding and projecting Nigeria’s interests and values internationally.
The former spokesperson commended the organisers for establishing a platform to recognise individuals whose professional contributions had positively influenced the media and communication landscape.
He also acknowledged the support of media practitioners, foreign service colleagues, mentors, friends and associates, stressing that collaboration was indispensable to effective public communication and diplomacy.
Ebienfa said the award represented more than a personal achievement, describing it as recognition of the collective contributions 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 the recognition would inspire him to sustain efforts towards improving Nigeria’s international image and strengthening its relations with other countries.
He dedicated the award to professionals who use communication to promote understanding, peace and cooperation among peoples and nations.
Ebienfa was represented at the ceremony by his foster son, Woyengiowoi Precious Michael.
The Bayelsa Media Awards is an annual initiative that recognises individuals and organisations for their contributions to the media, public service and the development of Bayelsa State.
