Broadcast organisations in Bayelsa State have honoured Mr. Daniel Alabrah, the Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to Governor Douye Diri, with the award of Best Media-Friendly Chief Press Secretary.
The organisations recognised Alabrah’s consistent commitment to building a smooth and professional relationship between the government and the media.
The award was presented on Tuesday at the Ernest Ikoli Media Complex by the Forum of Heads of Broadcast Organisations during a send-forth ceremony held in honour of three members—two retiring and one proceeding on transfer.
A visibly delighted Alabrah described the recognition as a “pleasant surprise,” noting that the gesture reaffirmed the importance of mutual respect and collaboration between his office and the media community.
He expressed gratitude to the forum for acknowledging what he considered his “little efforts,” adding that the award would further spur him to strengthen the bond between the government and media practitioners in the state.
“The media is an important aspect of society.
“Broadcast brings information, entertainment, and education to people in their homes and communities across Bayelsa.
”Despite the prevailing economic challenges, you have continued to ensure that the policies and programmes of Governor Diri’s administration reach our people effectively, ” he said.
Alabrah also congratulated the retiring General Managers—Mr. Fredrick Fabor of Niger Delta Television (NDTV) and Mrs. Daoju Whyte of the Nigeria Television Authority (NTA)—as well as Mr. Udosen Udoh of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), who has been transferred to Rivers State.
He praised their years of service and encouraged them to continue mentoring younger media professionals even in retirement or new postings.
In his remarks, the immediate past chairman of the forum, Mr. Fredrick Fabor, thanked members for their cooperation and highlighted the harmony that defined their tenure.
He acknowledged the CPS for providing vital support during crucial moments, saying it made the forum’s responsibilities easier.
Fabor commended the state government for its investment in media infrastructure, particularly the Ernest Ikoli Media Complex, which he described as one of the finest in the country.
He also lauded the government for equipping state-owned radio and television stations with modern facilities.
Mrs. Daoju Whyte, former GM of NTA Yenagoa, described the occasion as a defining moment in her career.
Reflecting on her journey through the ranks, she emphasised the importance of perseverance and professional focus.
She noted that Bayelsa holds a special place in her heart, having attended secondary school at St. Jude’s Girls Secondary School in Yenagoa.
She equally expressed gratitude to the governor and his spokesman for their support throughout her tenure.
Goodwill messages came from Mr. Oyins Egrenbido, Business Development Manager of Silverbird Communications, and Mrs. Grace Orumieyefa, chairperson of the National Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Bayelsa chapter.
Both speakers praised the forum for mentoring younger journalists and urged senior practitioners to remain open to offering guidance whenever needed.
The incoming chairman of the forum and Acting General Manager of Radio Bayelsa, Mr. Terence Ekiseh, pledged to sustain and build upon the achievements of his predecessors.
He also applauded Alabrah for his unwavering support for the forum.
The ceremony culminated in the presentation of plaques of appreciation: Mr. Fabor was honoured as Outstanding Chairman; Mr. Udoh as Outstanding Secretary; and Mrs. Whyte as Outstanding Exco Member—bringing the event to an emotional and celebratory close.
