Opinion: Experience matters in lawmaking, why Nyampa deserves another term

With preparations for the 2027 general elections gradually taking shape, political discussions across Michika and Madagali Federal Constituency have intensified over who is best suited to continue representing the area at the National Assembly. While calls for fresh faces in politics are understandable, the importance of legislative experience and continuity should not be overlooked when assessing those seeking public office.

The third term bid of Dauda Nyampa should therefore not be viewed merely through the lens of how long he has spent in office, but through the practical realities of lawmaking and representation.

Unlike executive positions where visible projects often define performance, legislative offices demand experience, networking, committee influence and deep understanding of parliamentary procedures. Lawmaking is not an arena where newcomers instantly become effective overnight. It requires years of learning the rules, building alliances and understanding how to navigate complex legislative processes in order to attract meaningful benefits to constituents.

Unfortunately, many people mistakenly compare legislative positions to executive offices such as governor or chairman. A legislator does not control state resources directly. His primary responsibility is to sponsor bills, move motions, influence policies and use his connections within the National Assembly to attract federal projects and opportunities to his constituency.

This is where experience becomes invaluable.

A ranking lawmaker often commands greater respect and influence than a first timer still struggling to learn parliamentary procedures and establish relationships. Replacing an experienced legislator with a completely new entrant may satisfy political sentiments, but it can also weaken the constituency’s voice at the federal level.

For Michika and Madagali, continuity may offer greater advantages at this critical period. If Nyampa has already built networks, gained committee experience and understands how the system works, retaining him could place the constituency in a stronger position to benefit from federal attention and legislative advocacy.

This does not mean new faces should never emerge in politics. Democracy thrives on healthy competition and fresh ideas. However, leadership decisions should be guided by competence, effectiveness and the interests of the people rather than emotions or the mere desire for change.

At a time when communities seek more federal presence, infrastructure, security interventions and youth opportunities, experience in the National Assembly should not be discarded lightly.

Nyampa third term bid represents stability, continuity and a chance to deepen ongoing legislative efforts rather than handing over the constituency to a political newcomer still trying to learn the ropes.