Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Meeting Details
- Importance of the Committee
- Early Tenure Experience
- Electoral Framework
- Vision for INEC
- Voter Education
- Senate Committee Welcome
The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan, SAN, has highlighted essential priorities aimed at enhancing Nigeria’s electoral system, focusing on electoral reform, infrastructure development, and voter education during his initial interactive meeting with the Senate Committee on Electoral Matters.
The meeting took place in Room 107 of the Senate New Wing on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, marking Professor Amupitan’s first formal engagement with the Committee since he took office. He was joined by the full complement of National Commissioners, the Secretary to the Commission, and the Chairman’s technical aides, underscoring the significance INEC places on this interaction. Present members of the Senate Committee included the Chairman, Senator Simon Bako Lalong, along with Senators Adams Oshiomhole, Tony Nwoye, Ireti Kingibe, Ede Dafinone, Emma Nwachukwu, Kelvin Chukwu, and Sunday Katum.
In his address, Prof. Amupitan recognized the Senate Committee on Electoral Matters as a vital component of Nigeria’s democratic framework, noting that its legislative and oversight duties directly influence the stability and credibility of the nation’s electoral system. He expressed gratitude to the Senate for the thorough confirmation process that preceded his appointment, describing the interaction as a demonstration of institutional collaboration grounded in constitutional principles.
Reflecting on the initial phase of his tenure, the INEC Chairman recalled that the Commission was immediately tasked with overseeing the Anambra Governorship Election on November 8, 2025. He reported that the election was successfully completed in a single day, a significant improvement from previous experiences, attributing the success to effective inter-agency collaboration and support from the National Assembly and other stakeholders. He noted that the exercise provided valuable lessons and insights into areas that require further enhancement, particularly in logistics and operational effectiveness.
Prof. Amupitan emphasized that Nigeria’s electoral system functions within a tripartite framework consisting of the Constitution, the Electoral Act, and INEC’s Regulations and Guidelines. While the Commission is authorized to conduct elections and issue regulations, he stressed that these responsibilities must align with the provisions of the Constitution and the laws enacted by the National Assembly. He commended the legislature for allowing INEC to contribute to the ongoing process of constitutional and electoral amendments.
Outlining his vision for the Commission, the INEC Chairman stated that assisting the National Assembly in achieving meaningful electoral reforms is a core priority of his leadership. He further stressed the necessity of strengthening existing infrastructure and utilizing technology in ways that enhance transparency, credibility, and inclusiveness in the electoral process. He acknowledged the challenges associated with public perception and expectations, highlighting the importance of adhering to constitutionalism, due process, and institutional boundaries during elections.
The INEC chairman also identified voter education as a crucial mandate that will receive increased focus under his leadership, noting that informed citizen participation is essential for the integrity and credibility of elections. He emphasized the central role of logistics in electoral success and observed that preparations for upcoming elections, including the FCT Area Council Election and other off-cycle elections scheduled for 2026, are closely tied to the timely completion of electoral reforms by the National Assembly.
Earlier in his remarks, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Electoral Matters, Senator Simon Bako Lalong, welcomed Prof. Amupitan and his delegation, describing the interactive session as a significant milestone in efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s democratic institutions. He reaffirmed the central role of INEC in fostering public confidence in governance and stressed that credible elections are fundamental to democratic legitimacy.
Senator Lalong congratulated the INEC Chairman on his appointment and noted that he assumed office at a time of heightened public expectations and evolving challenges, including technological innovation, voter education, electoral security, logistics, and public trust. He assured the Commission of the Committee's readiness to provide legislative support, constructive oversight, and policy guidance to enable INEC to effectively fulfill its constitutional mandate.
He emphasized that the interactive session was intended to promote open dialogue and institutional collaboration rather than mere ceremonial engagement. While reaffirming the Committee’s commitment to electoral reforms through legislation and budgetary support, Senator Lalong stressed that oversight should not be seen as interference, noting that respect for INEC’s constitutional independence remains a guiding principle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key priorities outlined by Professor Joash Amupitan for INEC?
The key priorities include electoral reform, infrastructure development, and voter education.
What was the significance of Professor Amupitan's first meeting with the Senate Committee?
It marked his first formal engagement with the Committee and underscored the importance of institutional collaboration in enhancing Nigeria’s electoral system.
How did the Anambra Governorship Election of November 8, 2025, differ from previous elections?
The election was successfully concluded in a single day, a notable improvement attributed to effective inter-agency cooperation and support from various stakeholders.
What role does voter education play in the electoral process according to Prof. Amupitan?
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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