Hon. Beni Butmak Lar, a five-time elected Member who represented Langtang North/Langtang South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, inspired aspiring political leaders with her remarkable story of perseverance as she shared lessons from over two decades in politics during the International Republican Institute (IRI) Candidates’ Training in Abuja.
Speaking as a guest resource person at the two-day capacity-building programme held at Bon Hotel Octagon, Jahi, Hon. Lar delivered a session on “Experience Sharing: Campaign Successes and Failures, Overcoming Financial, Social and Political Barriers.”
Drawing from her personal political journey, Hon. Lar told participants that setbacks should never define a leader. She recalled losing her first election in 2003 before going on to win election to the House of Representatives five consecutive times. She also reflected on the legal challenge that brought her fifth tenure to an early end after the Court of Appeal nullified her election following the dispute over her former party’s structure in Plateau State.
Addressing participants, the APC candidate for Langtang North/Langtang South Federal Constituency in the 2027 general elections said every stage of her political journey had strengthened her resolve to continue serving her constituents.
Hon Lar said “I lost my first election in 2003, but I refused to allow that defeat to define me. Every setback became a lesson, and every challenge made me stronger. Leadership demands courage, perseverance and an total belief in the people you serve,”.
She encouraged participants not to be discouraged by financial constraints, political opposition or social barriers, stressing that credibility, consistency and grassroots connection remain the foundation of lasting political success.
A trained Lawyer, Hon Lar added that “Winning elections is important, but earning the trust of the people is even more important. When your service speaks for you, the people will always remember. Never allow temporary setbacks to stop you from pursuing your vision,”.
The session drew enthusiastic participation as candidates engaged Hon. Lar on campaign strategy, constituency service, political endurance and maintaining public confidence through changing political circumstances.
The International Republican Institute organised the training to strengthen democratic values, build leadership capacity and prepare political candidates for effective participation in Nigeria’s democratic process.
Over the course of the event that runs till Wednesday, 22nd July, 2026, participants are expected to receive practical sessions on democratic governance, strategic campaign management, voter engagement, political communication, leadership ethics, policy development and inclusive representation.
The ongoing programme is also providing an opportunity for candidates from different political parties to interact, exchange ideas and promote peaceful political participation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
One of the highlights of the training was the sharing of Hon Lar’s political experience from electoral defeat to five election victories, through a court-induced interruption, and now seeking a fresh mandate on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) which offered practical lessons on perseverance, determination and purposeful leadership.
