President Bola Tinubu has sworn in Professor Joash Amupitan as the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), urging him to uphold the integrity of Nigeria’s elections and deepen ongoing democratic reforms.
The swearing-in ceremony took place at the State House, Abuja, a week after the Senate confirmed Amupitan’s appointment on October 16 following a rigorous screening exercise.
Tinubu said the appointment underscores confidence in Amupitan’s capacity to lead one of Nigeria’s most crucial democratic institutions. “Your nomination and confirmation by the Senate reflect the trust and confidence reposed in your competence by both the Executive and Legislative arms of government,” he stated.
Highlighting 25 years of democratic progress in Nigeria, the President emphasized the need to continue improving electoral systems to sustain public trust. “To maintain confidence in elections, electoral integrity must be protected. Every stage of the process from registration to collation must be transparent, fair, and credible,” Tinubu said, urging Amupitan to strengthen INEC’s institutional resilience against undue influence.
In his response, Professor Amupitan pledged to justify the confidence placed in him, affirming his commitment to defend the Constitution and ensure credible, free, and fair elections. “The integrity of our elections is not negotiable. Every voter must feel confident that their vote counts,” he declared.
Speaking at INEC headquarters after officially assuming duty, the University of Jos law professor described his appointment as a divine calling, promising to prioritize staff welfare, collaboration, and transparency. He also acknowledged the enormous task ahead, particularly the upcoming Anambra governorship election slated for November 8, 2025, which he described as a major test of INEC’s credibility.
Acting INEC Chairperson, May Agbamuche-Mbu, who handed over to Amupitan, said he was assuming office at a crucial moment in Nigeria’s electoral calendar. She lauded the foundation laid by his predecessor, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, citing technological innovations such as BVAS and IReV that have strengthened transparency and voter confidence.
“The foundation has been laid; the path is defined. What lies ahead is the building, the consolidation, and the forward march,” she said, expressing confidence in Amupitan’s ability to lead the commission effectively.
