The Niger Delta Advancement Awards (NDAA) 8.0 continues its tradition of honoring exemplary leadership at the highest levels of governance, with the Senator of the Year category spotlighting 15 distinguished senators who have made significant strides in legislative advocacy, constituency development, infrastructure facilitation, and regional empowerment across the nine Niger Delta states in 2025. The grand finale is scheduled for Sunday, February 8, 2026, at The Arena Event Centre, GRA Phase 2, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, with the red carpet commencing at 4:00 PM and the main ceremony at 5:00 PM.
As an official media partner, Alexa News Network Limited (Alexa.ng) presents comprehensive profiles of these nominees, who represent a blend of experienced statesmen and dynamic lawmakers driving progress in Ondo, Edo, Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Imo, Abia, Akwa Ibom, and Cross River. Their nominations reflect outstanding contributions in areas such as healthcare interventions, education revival, infrastructure projects, youth empowerment, environmental advocacy, and national legislative reforms. With 840 nominees across 56 categories, public voting is actively open on the official NDAA website (www.ndaawards.juvenismag.com), encouraging citizens to support their preferred leaders.
Here are the detailed profiles of the nominees:
1. Sen. Omueya Ede Dafinone – Delta Central Senatorial District (Delta State)
A chartered accountant and economist, Sen. Ede Dafinone has quietly transformed Delta Central with people-centered initiatives. In 2025, he launched a major medical outreach serving over 2,000 constituents, donated equipment to Sapele Central Hospital, and secured funding for the Sapele Seaport revival in the federal budget. His agricultural training programs, school renovations, and focus on healthcare prevention highlight his commitment to sustainable development and grassroots empowerment in the Urhobo heartland.
2. Sen. Godswill Akpabio – Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District (Akwa Ibom State)
As President of the Senate, Sen. Godswill Akpabio has led national legislative efforts while championing Akwa Ibom's interests. His tenure emphasizes infrastructure, economic growth, and security through poverty reduction programs. Known for his transformative "Uncommon Transformation" as former governor, he continues advocating for regional development, earning recognition as a pillar of peace and progress in the Niger Delta.
3. Sen. Barinada Barry Mpigi – Rivers South East Senatorial District (Rivers State)
Sen. Barry Mpigi focuses on community welfare, peacebuilding, and infrastructure in Rivers' oil-rich South East. His advocacy for equitable resource distribution and youth programs strengthens grassroots stability and development in this key senatorial zone.
4. Sen. Asuquo Ekpenyong Jr – Cross River South Senatorial District (Cross River State)
A rising voice from Cross River South, Sen. Asuquo Ekpenyong Jr. prioritizes youth empowerment, education, and environmental sustainability. His initiatives address the unique coastal and cultural needs of the district, fostering inclusive growth.
5. Sen. Eyinnaya Harcourt Abaribe – Abia South Senatorial District (Abia State)
A veteran legislator, Sen. Abaribe champions economic reforms, infrastructure, and accountability. His consistent advocacy for South East interests extends to Abia South, promoting regional equity and development.
6. Sen. Seriake Henry Dickson – Bayelsa West Senatorial District (Bayelsa State)
Former Bayelsa governor and current senator, Sen. Seriake Dickson excels in education, healthcare, and environmental leadership. He chairs the Senate Committee on Ecology/Climate Change, advancing reforms and attracting development to Bayelsa's riverine communities.
7. Sen. Adams Aliyu Oshomhole – Edo North Senatorial District (Edo State)
A former governor and labor leader, Sen. Adams Oshiomhole has delivered impactful constituency projects in 2025, including road construction, school blocks under the "red roof revolution," and youth employment facilitation. He has secured federal jobs, veterinary hospitals, and youth complexes for Edo North, blending legislative prowess with grassroots delivery.
8. Sen. Olajide Ipinsagba – Ondo North Senatorial District (Ondo State)
Sen. Olajide Ipinsagba focuses on infrastructure, agriculture, and community empowerment in Ondo North, advocating for sustainable projects that uplift rural and urban constituents alike.
9. Sen. Osita Izunaso – Imo West Senatorial District (Imo State)
Known for economic advocacy and development initiatives, Sen. Osita Izunaso drives progress in Imo West through targeted empowerment and infrastructure efforts.
10. Sen. Williams Eteng Jonah – Cross River Central Senatorial District (Cross River State)
Sen. Williams Eteng Jonah promotes unity, education, and rural development in Cross River Central, addressing local needs with focused representation.
11. Sen. Aniekan Etim Bassey – Akwa Ibom North East Senatorial District (Akwa Ibom State)
Sen. Aniekan Etim Bassey emphasizes youth programs, health, and infrastructure, contributing to Akwa Ibom's ongoing transformation.
12. Sen. Orji Uzor Kalu – Abia North Senatorial District (Abia State)
A business magnate and former governor, Sen. Orji Uzor Kalu has built extensive roads, schools, boreholes, and empowerment programs in Abia North. His 2025 efforts include agricultural support, scholarships, and legislative bills for economic advancement, making him synonymous with performance and progress.
13. Sen. Allwell Heacho Onyesho – Rivers East Senatorial District (Rivers State)
Sen. Allwell Heacho Onyesho advocates for community development, peace, and infrastructure in Rivers East, supporting urban and rural growth.
14. Sen. Ned Nwoko – Delta North Senatorial District (Delta State)
Sen. Ned Nwoko has attracted billions in projects, including modern stadiums, medical outreaches, solar lights, and infrastructure like dams and power step-downs. Sponsoring multiple bills and empowering youths through education and sports, he pushes for equitable representation and development in Delta North.
15. Sen. (Dr.) Benson Konbowei – Bayelsa Central Senatorial District (Bayelsa State)
Sen. Benson Konbowei focuses on environmental issues, community welfare, and sustainable development in Bayelsa's central zone, addressing oil-related challenges.
These senators embody visionary leadership, driving the Niger Delta toward prosperity through legislative excellence and constituency-focused service. Their stories inspire regional unity and progress amid Nigeria's evolving landscape.
The NDAA 8.0 promises an evening of celebration, inspiration, and recognition. Participate in voting via the official website and follow Alexa.ng for ongoing updates and exclusive coverage.

