Bayelsa monarch nominated for community development award

By Aherhoke Okioma

The paramount ruler of Azikoro Town in Yenagoa Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, Dr. Amadoko Clever Austin, has been nominated for the 2026 Community Developer of the Year Award by the Bayelsa Media Network Awards (BMNA), in recognition of his contributions to peace and grassroots development.

The nomination letter was presented to the monarch at his palace in Azikoro by the Project Manager of BMNA, Mr. Blessing Matthew Ozegbe, who commended the traditional ruler for what he described as remarkable development and sustained peace in the community since his ascension to the throne.

Ozegbe said the monarch earned the nomination due to the development witnessed in the community and the peaceful atmosphere prevailing under his leadership.

He described the monarch as a transparent and God-fearing ruler who has continued to lead the people with integrity and fairness.

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He said the award was to recognise individuals whose leadership has significantly impacted their communities, adding that the award ceremony is slated for December 26 at the Ernest Ikoli Press Centre of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Bayelsa State Council, Azikoro road, Ekeki, Yenagoa.

As part of the event, a nomination banner was unveiled and hoisted at the palace of the monarch.

Responding, the monarch described the recognition as heartwarming, saying it reflects appreciation and confidence in his leadership style and commitment to the development of his community.

He thanked the organisers for the recognition and pledged his support towards ensuring a successful award ceremony.

The BMNA Project Manager was accompanied by the Bayelsa State Bureau Chief of Empire Newspaper, Mr. Ebido Lucky.