The Niger Delta Advancement Awards (NDAA) 8.0 proudly recognizes exceptional federal leadership in its Federal Representative of the Year category, highlighting lawmakers who have championed constituency development, legislative excellence, and regional progress across the nine Niger Delta states. With the grand finale scheduled for Sunday, February 8, 2026, at The Arena Event Centre, GRA Phase 2, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, the red carpet begins at 4:00 PM, leading into the main ceremony at 5:00 PM.
As an official media partner, Alexa News Network Limited (Alexa.ng) brings you detailed profiles of the 15 distinguished nominees. These federal representatives have been selected for their impactful contributions in 2025, including infrastructure projects, human capital development, empowerment initiatives, and advocacy for better governance. Public voting is ongoing on the official NDAA website (www.ndaawards.juvenismag.com), where supporters from Ondo, Edo, Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Imo, Abia, Akwa Ibom, and Cross River can cast their votes to crown the winner among the 840 nominees across 56 categories.
Here are the inspiring profiles of the nominees:
1. Rt. Hon. Unyime Idem – Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency (Akwa Ibom State)
Chairman of the House Committee on Public Procurement, Rt. Hon. Unyime Idem has empowered over 8,000 constituents through human capital programs, including international training in China for eco-leather technology and digital security. He conceived and facilitated the launch of a ₦1 billion family business grant initiative, benefiting 3,000 families with transparent seed capital distribution. His efforts in infrastructure, scholarships, and job facilitation underscore his commitment to grassroots economic empowerment in Akwa Ibom.
2. Hon. Benjamin O. Kalu – Bende Federal Constituency (Abia State)
As Deputy Speaker of the 10th House of Representatives and Chairman of the Committee on Constitution Review, Hon. Benjamin O. Kalu has delivered roads, health centers, and youth empowerment programs in Bende. Founder of the Benjamin Kalu Foundation, he focuses on youth, women, and disability inclusion, while his Peace in the South East Project promotes non-kinetic security solutions. His legislative contributions and constituency projects reflect unparalleled dedication to inclusive growth.
3. Hon. Francis Waive – Ughelli North/Ughelli South/Udu Federal Constituency (Delta State)
Chairman of the House Committee on Rules and Business, Hon. Francis Waive has driven infrastructure and healthcare advancements, including the establishment of the Federal Medical Centre in Ovwian. He has tarred roads, built classrooms, provided electricity transformers, and reconnected communities to the national grid. His advocacy for voter registration and development projects has strengthened constituency representation in Delta.
4. Hon. (Prof.) Julius O. Ihonvbere – Owan East/Owan West Federal Constituency (Edo State)
A renowned academic and Chairman of the House Committee on Basic Education & Services, Hon. (Prof.) Julius Ihonvbere has renovated over 54 schools, provided scholarships, vocational training, and empowered hundreds through the Ihonvbere Foundation. His focus on human capital, infrastructure, and community building has transformed education and livelihoods in Owan, earning him recognition as a model legislator.
5. Hon. Abiola Peter Makinde – Ondo East/Ondo West Federal Constituency (Ondo State)
Hon. Abiola Peter Makinde has prioritized constituency projects in education, health, and infrastructure, advocating for sustainable development in Ondo. His efforts in empowering youths and improving local amenities highlight responsive federal representation.
6. Hon. Rodney Ebikebina Ambaiowei – Southern Ijaw Federal Constituency (Bayelsa State)
Representing the riverine Southern Ijaw, Hon. Rodney Ebikebina Ambaiowei focuses on environmental stewardship, youth empowerment, and infrastructure amid the challenges of the Niger Delta's oil-rich terrain.
7. Hon. Kingsley O. Chinda – Obio/Akpor Federal Constituency (Rivers State)
A former Environment Commissioner, Hon. Kingsley O. Chinda has leveraged his legal expertise to advocate for environmental protection, community development, and accountability in Obio/Akpor, a major economic hub in Rivers.
8. Hon. (Deacon) Chike Okafor – Obowo/Ihitte Uboma/Ehime Mbano Federal Constituency (Imo State)
Hon. Chike Okafor emphasizes community welfare, education, and economic initiatives, delivering tangible benefits to his Imo constituents through targeted projects.
9. Hon. Peter Akpanke – Obanliku/Obudu/Bekwarra Federal Constituency (Cross River State)
Hon. Peter Akpanke champions rural development, agriculture, and youth programs in Cross River's northern areas, fostering peace and progress.
10. Hon. Julius Gbabojor Pondi – Burutu Federal Constituency (Delta State)
Focused on oil-bearing communities, Hon. Julius Gbabojor Pondi advocates for environmental remediation, empowerment, and infrastructure in Burutu.
11. Hon. Peter Ohiojozie Akpatason – Akoko/Edo Federal Constituency (Edo State)
Hon. Peter Ohiojozie Akpatason drives education, health, and economic projects in Edo, supporting constituency growth.
12. Hon. Frederick Y. Agbedi – Sagbama/Ekeremor Federal Constituency (Bayelsa State)
Hon. Frederick Y. Agbedi addresses youth development and infrastructure in Bayelsa's western axis.
13. Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Ukpong Udo – Ikono/Ini Federal Constituency (Akwa Ibom State)
Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Ukpong Udo promotes empowerment and community projects in Akwa Ibom's interior.
14. Hon. Jonathan Ajirioghene Ukodhiko – Isoko North/Isoko South Federal Constituency (Delta State)
Hon. Jonathan Ajirioghene Ukodhiko focuses on education and economic upliftment in Isoko land.
15. Hon. Solomon T. Bob – Ahoada-East/Abua/Odual Federal Constituency (Rivers State)
Hon. Solomon T. Bob advocates for peace, youth empowerment, and infrastructure in Rivers' northern areas.
These nominees embody excellence in federal representation, driving the Niger Delta's advancement through visionary leadership and people-centered initiatives. Their work inspires hope for sustainable development and good governance.
The NDAA 8.0 promises a night of celebration, networking, and recognition. Engage by voting on the official website and follow updates via Alexa.ng for comprehensive coverage.
