The immediate past spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimieibi Ebienfa, has received the Media Diplomat of the Year Award at the 13th edition of the Bayelsa Media Awards, held as part of activities marking the 30th anniversary of Bayelsa State.
Ebienfa was honoured at the ceremony held in Yenagoa on September 8, 2026, in recognition of his use of strategic communication to advance diplomacy, project Bayelsa and Ijaw interests, and promote Nigeria’s image before the international community.
The organisers said the former ministry of foreign affairs spokesperson emerged from a review of young Bayelsans who had distinguished themselves in projecting the state beyond its shores.
They cited his handling of sensitive political communications, professional engagement with the media and growing role in bridging government, journalists and the international community.
Describing him as a “true Media Diplomat”, the organisers said his approach to public communication reflected a generation of Ijaw professionals seeking to project their communities and the state through diplomacy, composure and strategic engagement.
In his reaction, Ebienfa expressed appreciation to the organisers, describing the award as both an encouragement and a call to greater responsibility in the practice of 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.
He said his service as spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs 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.
Ebienfa 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 was 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 creating a platform to recognise individuals whose professional contributions had made an impact on the media and communication landscape.
He also acknowledged the support of media practitioners, colleagues in the foreign service, mentors, friends and associates, noting that collaboration remained essential to effective public communication and diplomacy.
According to him, the recognition was not only a personal milestone but also a reflection of the 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 award would motivate him to continue contributing to efforts to improve Nigeria’s international image and deepen its relations with other countries.
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 initiative that recognises individuals and organisations for their contributions to the media, public service and development of Bayelsa State.
