Ahead of the 2027 general elections, Ambassador Kennedy Njar-Nsan, an academic and human rights advocate, has declared his intention to contest for the Cross River State House of Assembly seat for Ikom I State Constituency on the platform of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC). In this interview, he speaks on his ambition, the challenges facing Ikom, governance, youth participation in politics and his vision for the constituency.
Can you introduce yourself to our readers?
Amb. Kennedy Njar-Nsan: My name is Ambassador Kennedy Njar-Nsan from Akparabong in Ikom Local Government Area. I am a university lecturer and an academic with degrees in History, International Relations and Political Science. I have taught at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, and the University of Calabar. My passion has always been leadership, public service and developing people, and that passion has inspired my decision to seek elective office.
Why are you contesting for the Cross River State House of Assembly?
I want to represent the interests of the people of Ikom, not the interests of those in power. Despite being the commercial nerve centre of Cross River State, Ikom has suffered years of neglect. Our roads are bad, electricity is non-existent, public schools are underfunded and many communities lack basic infrastructure. I believe effective representation should focus on improving people’s lives through advocacy, legislation and proper oversight.
What are the major challenges facing Ikom I Constituency?
Poor infrastructure, unemployment, lack of electricity, poor road networks, lack of pipe-borne water and weak public education are among the biggest challenges. While many of these are executive responsibilities, a committed legislator can influence development through effective representation, oversight and engagement with the government.
Have you held any public office before?
I have not held an elective political office, but I have served in several leadership positions throughout my academic and professional career. Leadership has always been part of my life, and I believe those experiences have prepared me for public service.
How do you assess the current representation of your constituency?
The people will judge that. However, when you look at the level of development in Ikom today, it is obvious that much more could have been achieved. Our constituency deserves stronger representation and more effective engagement with the government.
What would you do differently if elected?
I will put the people first. I intend to hold regular town hall meetings so that development priorities come directly from the people. The government should respond to the needs of communities, not impose projects that do not address their challenges. Representation should be driven by the voices of the people.
Do you think your party will be a limitation?
Not at all. The NDC stands for policies that address poverty through investments in education, healthcare, infrastructure and support for small businesses. We believe governance should focus on solving collective goods problems rather than distributing temporary handouts during elections.
As a young politician, what challenges have you faced?
Funding remains the biggest challenge because politics is expensive. Another challenge is changing the culture of vote-buying, where some voters expect money or gifts before offering support. Politics should be about development, not transactions.
How do you assess the representation of Ikom/Boki Federal Constituency?
That decision belongs to the people of Ikom and Boki. They should evaluate whether their representative has delivered meaningful development and use their votes accordingly.
How would you rate Governor Bassey Otu’s administration?
The people of Cross River State will ultimately decide. I acknowledge that the administration has made progress in security, but there are other areas where citizens expect more. Democracy gives the people the opportunity to evaluate every government based on performance.
What message do you have for young Nigerians?
Politics affects every aspect of our lives, from education and healthcare to roads and employment. Young people must participate actively in politics and reject vote-selling. We must elect leaders based on competence, integrity and performance.
What are your chances in the 2027 election?
I am optimistic because I believe the people are looking for credible alternatives. If elected, I will remain accountable to the people of Ikom. I will not become a puppet or defend the government at the expense of my constituents. My commitment is to serve the people with integrity and courage.
Finally, what is your message to the people of Ikom I ahead of 2027?
I urge our people to vote for competence, character and vision. Hold leaders accountable and never reward poor performance. If entrusted with your mandate, I will work tirelessly to justify your confidence and ensure that the interests of Ikom I State Constituency remain my highest priority.