… Dedicates The Award To His Colleagues

The management of Newsmaxng on Friday, formally presented the award of 2025 Special Assistant to the Ebonyi State Governor of the Year to Leo Ekene Oketa, Special Assistant to the Governor on New Media, at his residence in Ebonyi State.

The award presentation, which took place on 9th January was held in a warm and relaxed atmosphere. His wife was also present and received the award alongside him, adding a personal and emotional touch to the moment.

The honour follows Oketa’s emergence as winner of the category at the Ebonyi Leadership Excellence Award, organized annually by Newsmaxng, where he polled 11,234 votes to top other nominees in a keenly contested public voting process.

While presenting the award, the Newsmaxng team commended Oketa for his consistency, dedication, and visible impact in shaping government communication in Ebonyi State. They noted that his work on new media has helped bring governance closer to the people while maintaining professionalism and discipline in public engagement.

Receiving the award, a visibly grateful Leo Oketa thanked Newsmaxng for the recognition and expressed deep appreciation to everyone who voted and supported him throughout the process. He described the award as a shared honour that belongs to the people who believe in constructive engagement and open communication.

Speaking on his experience in the digital space, Oketa acknowledged that his role often comes with online backlash, but said he has learned to see things from the people’s point of view.

“One of the things I said I’ll do more in this my work is to allow people air their opinions. It’s very important because sometimes you may be walking on the way and encounter something that you think the government should have done better on. Someone may come online to make posts that should be hurting, but I look at them and just keep quiet because those are the times most people say their truth. So I just observe, wear their shoes and mirror the governor,” he said.

He went on to describe Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru as the most media-friendly governor, noting that this has shaped his own approach to handling criticism and public opinion online.

“I try to picture how he feels when he sees some posts and comments online about him and his administration. That helps me respond better and stay calm,” Oketa added.

He reaffirmed his commitment to remaining approachable, respectful, and people-focused in his work, promising to continue reflecting the governor’s style of openness and friendliness in engaging the public.

The presence of his wife at the presentation highlighted the family support behind his public service journey, a factor many believe has strengthened his discipline and consistency over the years.

The award presentation further reinforces Leo Oketa’s growing reputation as a thoughtful communicator, a bridge between government and the people, and a public servant who understands that listening is as important as speaking.

The Ebonyi Leadership Excellence Award, organized by Newsmaxng, continues to celebrate individuals whose work and character positively impact governance and public life across the state.