INEC Chairman commissions new directors Thursday
The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, is set to commission newly appointed directors and heads of departments at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja on Thursday.
According to a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the INEC Chairman, Mr. Rotimi Oyekanmi, the ceremony marks part of ongoing efforts by the electoral body to strengthen institutional capacity, enhance professionalism, and prepare ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Strengthening internal leadership
Prof. Yakubu is expected to formally inaugurate directors recently appointed across key departments, including Operations, Election and Party Monitoring, Voter Education and Publicity, ICT, and Legal Services.
“This exercise is part of a broad administrative reform to reposition the commission for improved service delivery and operational efficiency,” Oyekanmi said.
He added that the new directors were appointed following a competitive internal selection process based on merit, competence, and years of service within the commission.
Preparing for future elections
An INEC insider who spoke on condition of anonymity said the new appointments reflect the commission’s readiness to begin early preparations for upcoming electoral activities, including off-cycle governorship elections and voter registration exercises.
“The chairman wants a more agile and accountable leadership structure. These directors will drive key reforms to improve logistics, technology adoption, and stakeholder engagement before 2027,” the source revealed.
Institutional reforms
Since the 2023 general elections, INEC has embarked on several internal reforms, focusing on staff retraining, digital innovation, and inter-agency coordination to address operational challenges encountered in previous polls.
Prof. Yakubu has repeatedly emphasized that the commission’s success depends on the competence and integrity of its personnel at all levels.
“We will continue to build a strong, transparent, and professional institution capable of delivering credible elections that reflect the will of Nigerians,” the chairman said during a recent stakeholder forum in Abuja.
Background
The latest appointments follow the retirement of several senior directors earlier in the year and are part of INEC’s succession plan to ensure continuity and institutional stability.
The newly commissioned directors are expected to assume duty immediately after Thursday’s ceremony.
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