Bayelsa Media Awards
The 13.30 Edition
13th Edition · 30 Years of Bayelsa Statehood
Theme: “The Media's Role in Bayelsa's Progress: Lessons and Opportunities”
Sub-theme: “Harnessing Media Power for Sustainable Development in Bayelsa”
Thursday, 8 October 2026
Red carpet 11:00 AM · Main event 12:00 noon
Emmanuel's Place, Osiri Road, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State
About the 13.30 Edition
As Bayelsa State marks 30 years of statehood, it is a critical moment to reflect on the role of institutions that have shaped its narrative. The media stands at the center of this story.
For over a decade, the Bayelsa Media Awards (BMA) has provided a credible platform to recognize excellence in journalism and media practice in the Niger Delta. The BMA celebrates professionalism, creativity, and impact, while also fostering dialogue on the challenges and opportunities within the media space.
The 13th Edition of the BMA, tagged the 13.30 Edition, will therefore focus on the media's contribution to development, governance, and nation-building in Bayelsa State.
Theme & Sub-theme
This edition interrogates how media practice has influenced Bayelsa's trajectory, and how it can be better positioned to drive sustainable development, accountability, and citizen engagement in the next decade.
Theme
“The Media's Role in Bayelsa's Progress: Lessons and Opportunities”
Sub-theme
“Harnessing Media Power for Sustainable Development in Bayelsa”
Our Focus This Edition
Development
Examining how media practice can be better positioned to drive sustainable development across Bayelsa State in the next decade.
Governance
Interrogating the media's role in accountability, transparency, and the strengthening of public institutions.
Nation-Building
Celebrating the storytelling that shapes citizen engagement and binds communities across the Niger Delta.
Previous Editions Highlights
Be Part of 13.30
The nominees for the 13.30 Edition have been announced. Partnership and sponsorship opportunities remain open — join us as we mark 30 years of Bayelsa statehood and the media that helped tell its story.
