As preparations gradually begin ahead of the 2027 general elections, the people of Nnewi North, Nnewi South and Ekwusigo face an important decision: choosing a representative to the Federal House of Representatives who is not only accessible and people-oriented, but intellectually equipped to navigate the complexities of national lawmaking.
At the heart of this choice lies a fundamental question: who possesses the academic depth, mental agility and intellectual capacity required to effectively represent a constituency of such strategic economic and political importance as the Japan of Africa. For many within the Nnewi federal constituency, the name that consistently stands out in this regard is Ambassador Ikebunwa Lotanna.
Ambassador Lotanna’s academic trajectory reflects a pattern of excellence that has remained consistent over the years. From his early education, he distinguished himself as an outstanding student, recording exceptional results in his Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination. That foundation of academic brilliance was further reinforced during his preliminary programme at the Federal Polytechnic, Oko (Ufuma Campus), where he set a record that remains unbroken—emerging as the first and only student to clear all courses with distinctions and graduating as the overall best.
His intellectual capacity has also been tested beyond the academic environment. During a highly competitive recruitment screening exercise conducted by Intercontinental Bank,now Access Bank Plc, which attracted over a thousand applicants, Amb. Lotanna emerged first overall, topping the examination. The feat underscored his ability to perform under pressure and his consistent analytical sharpness.
As an undergraduate in Electrical and Electronics Engineering—one of the most demanding disciplines in higher education today in Nigeria,he successfully combined academic excellence with active participation in student leadership and political engagement. He graduated with an impressive result that later earned him a place as a lecturer in the same department, where he now mentors and trains young engineers. His transition from student to lecturer speaks to his mastery of the discipline, depth of knowledge and ability to transmit ideas with clarity.
Beyond engineering, Amb. Lotanna has continued to invest in professional development to remain globally competitive. He is a Microsoft Certified IT Professional (NIIT, 2010), a Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), certified in Dubai in 2022, and a Google Certified Digital Marketer (2017). He has also undergone cybersecurity training through Halogen in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, equipping him with skills relevant to today’s technology-driven governance environment.
His academic breadth extends into business and ethics. He is an alumnus of the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Business School, where he studied Business Plan Sustainability for Small Enterprises and graduated in 2022. He also holds a Diploma in Theology and Bible Studies from TWM, Michigan, USA, reflecting a balance between intellectual rigor and moral grounding. Additionally, his participation in national and international policy-focused programmes, including the National Youth Summit on Crime Prevention organised by the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), has broadened his understanding of governance and national security issues.
This strong intellectual foundation has translated into a diverse and impactful career. As a lecturer, entrepreneur, globally engaged youth ambassador and politically exposed actor, Amb. Lotanna has demonstrated that knowledge, when properly applied, yields tangible results. His ability to interrogate complex issues, engage policy frameworks and propose practical solutions is rooted in his academic discipline and clarity of thought.
In legislative representation, intellectual capacity is not optional. The House of Representatives is a demanding institution that requires critical thinking, policy analysis, budget scrutiny and effective oversight of ministries and agencies. Amb. Lotanna’s academic and professional background positions him to engage these responsibilities with confidence and competence.
At a time when the Nnewi federal constituency requires a representative capable of intelligently addressing issues such as industrialisation, power supply, youth employment, technology, education and security, Amb. Ikebunwa Lotanna offers a compelling alternative to politics driven by patronage or monetary inducements. He offers competence, preparation and vision.
His brilliance and mental acuity have shaped his life and leadership journey thus far. These same qualities place him in strong stead to deliver informed, effective and impactful representation at the Federal House of Representatives in 2027.
For a constituency that deserves clear thinking and capable leadership, many believe that Amb. Ikebunwa Lotanna represents a choice defined not by sentiment, but by intellect and readiness for the task ahead.