The Niger Delta Advancement Awards (NDAA) 8.0 continues to shine a spotlight on exemplary grassroots leadership and good governance, as the prestigious event prepares to honor outstanding contributors to regional development across the nine Niger Delta states. With the grand finale set for Sunday, February 8, 2026, at The Arena Event Centre, GRA Phase 2, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, the red carpet opens at 4:00 PM, followed by the main ceremony at 5:00 PM.
As an official media partner, Alexa News Network Limited (Alexa.ng) is proud to present in-depth profiles of the 15 dynamic nominees in the highly competitive LGA Councilor of the Year category. This category celebrates local councilors who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to community service, infrastructure development, youth empowerment, peacebuilding, and accountable representation at the ward level. These nominees, drawn from diverse local government areas (LGAs) in Ondo, Edo, Delta, Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom, and Imo states, embody the spirit of transformative leadership that drives progress from the grassroots upward.
Public voting remains open on the official NDAA website (www.ndaawards.juvenismag.com), where supporters can cast votes to help determine the winner in this and other categories among the 840 total nominees across 56 fields.
Here are the compelling profiles of the nominees:
1. Hon. Richard Cocodia Koritemo – Ward 9, Trofani, Sagbama L.G.A. (Bayelsa State)
A dedicated grassroots leader from the oil-rich Sagbama LGA, Hon. Richard Cocodia Koritemo has earned recognition for his tireless advocacy in community welfare, flood relief efforts, and youth inclusion. Operating in a ward known for its resilience amid environmental challenges, he has championed local empowerment programs and bridged gaps between constituents and higher authorities, making him a strong voice for sustainable development in Bayelsa.
2. Hon. Ogunoye Ayodeji Emmanuel – Ward 10, Oshodi/Isolo, Akure South L.G.A. (Ondo State)
Hailing from Ondo State's vibrant Akure South, Hon. Ogunoye Ayodeji Emmanuel stands out for his focus on urban-rural connectivity, education support, and economic initiatives. His proactive approach to ward-level projects has improved living standards, earning praise for inclusive governance and responsiveness to community needs in this key southwestern Niger Delta area.
3. Hon. Patrick Igelle Egena – Ward 4, Njeragom, Yala L.G.A. (Cross River State)
Representing the culturally rich Njeragom ward in Yala LGA, Hon. Patrick Igelle Egena is noted for promoting peacebuilding, agricultural support, and youth skills training. His efforts in fostering unity in a diverse community highlight his commitment to harmonious development and grassroots advancement in Cross River.
4. Hon. Ehijimetor Celestina – Ward 4, Esan West L.G.A. (Edo State)
A trailblazing female leader in Esan West LGA, Hon. Ehijimetor Celestina has been instrumental in advocating for women's empowerment, education, and health initiatives. Her nomination reflects her impactful representation and dedication to uplifting vulnerable groups in Edo's central region, contributing to broader social progress.
5. Hon. Idorenyin Okon – Ward 1, Northern Iman, Etinan L.G.A. (Akwa Ibom State)
From the progressive Etinan LGA, Hon. Idorenyin Okon is celebrated for his focus on youth mobilization, infrastructure improvements, and community engagement. His leadership has inspired local participation in development projects, positioning him as a forward-thinking councilor committed to long-term growth in Akwa Ibom.
6. Hon. Donald Chibuike Agbugba – Ward 10, Obiangwu/Ezemba, Ngor-Okpala L.G.A. (Imo State)
Hon. Donald Chibuike Agbugba brings energy and vision to Ngor-Okpala LGA, emphasizing agricultural innovation, road maintenance, and economic empowerment. His hands-on approach has addressed pressing ward needs, making him a nominee for excellence in local governance.
7. Hon. Uzo Raphael Babor – Ward 12, Ubulubu/Ogodor, Aniocha North L.G.A. (Delta State)
In Delta's Aniocha North, Hon. Uzo Raphael Babor has prioritized education, health services, and youth programs. His consistent efforts in community upliftment and accountability demonstrate strong leadership at the ward level.
8. Hon. Mayowa Adebayo – Ward 10, Ekamefa, Ifedore L.G.A. (Ondo State)
Another standout from Ondo, Hon. Mayowa Adebayo focuses on infrastructure, environmental sustainability, and social welfare in Ifedore LGA. His inclusive style has fostered community trust and progress.
9. Hon. Kate Priye Ebisoru – Ward 13, Biseni 2, Yenagoa L.G.A. (Bayelsa State)
A female powerhouse in Yenagoa, Hon. Kate Priye Ebisoru champions women's rights, education, and peace advocacy. Her work in Biseni 2 ward highlights gender-inclusive governance in Bayelsa.
10. Hon. Paschal Okoro (Ajangwo) – Ward 1, Avu/Oforola, Owerri West L.G.A. (Imo State)
Known as Ajangwo, Hon. Paschal Okoro excels in community mobilization and development projects in Owerri West, earning respect for his dedication to constituent welfare.
11. Hon. Prosper Okeoghene Ajero – Ward 2, Oviri/Ogor, Ughelli North L.G.A. (Delta State)
Hon. Prosper Okeoghene Ajero drives progress in Ughelli North through youth empowerment and infrastructure, contributing significantly to Delta's development narrative.
12. Hon. Malachi Ekpo – Ward 10, Ikpe Annang, Essien Udim L.G.A. (Akwa Ibom State)
From Essien Udim, Hon. Malachi Ekpo is recognized for cultural preservation, education support, and community harmony initiatives.
13. Hon. Philian Ihemedu – Ward 2, Ogbaku, Mbaitoli L.G.A. (Imo State)
Hon. Philian Ihemedu focuses on health, education, and economic empowerment in Mbaitoli, making tangible impacts on ward residents.
14. Hon. (Comr.) Idongesit Micah Eno – Ward 5, Ibesikpo Asutan L.G.A. (Akwa Ibom State)
With a comrade background, Hon. Idongesit Micah Eno advocates for youth and workers' rights, delivering responsive leadership in Ibesikpo Asutan.
15. Hon. Henry Movoriaye Apunu – Ward 7, Ovwian, Udu L.G.A. (Delta State)
Hon. Henry Movoriaye Apunu champions industrial community needs and sustainable development in Udu LGA, representing resilience and progress.
These nominees exemplify the power of local leadership in advancing the Niger Delta's agenda for good governance and community prosperity. Their stories inspire hope and call for active citizen participation through voting.
The NDAA 8.0 promises an unforgettable night of celebration, networking, and recognition. Fans and stakeholders are urged to visit the official website to vote and stay updated via Alexa.ng for more coverage.
