INEC: Amupitan champions electoral reform, improved infrastructure and voter education in Nigeria

*Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan, SAN, Chairman of Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission, in an interactive session with the Senate Committee on Electoral Matters, emphasises the need for improved infrastructure, and technology deployment to further enhance transparency, credibility, and inclusiveness in the country’s electoral process

Alexander Davis | ConsumerConnect

Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan, SAN, Chairman of Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has highlighted major priorities aimed at strengthening the electoral system in the West African country.

Amupitan, in his outlined priority areas, emphasised electoral reform, infrastructure development, and nationwide voter education Tuesday, December 16, 2025, during his maiden interactive meeting with the Senate Committee on Electoral Matters, in the National Assembly (NASS), Abuja, FCT.

Pepsi, Walmart accused of price-fixing, market manipulation in class action lawsuit

ConsumerConnect reports the Chairman’s Tuesday meeting with the Federal lawmakers marked his first official engagement with the Senate Committee since his assumption of office November this year.

The National Commissioners, the Secretary to the Commission, and the Chairman’s technical aides, reflecting the importance INEC attached to the interaction all accompanied Prof. Amupitan to the interactive session.

READ ALSO: Nigeria Unveils Strategy To Activate Global WSIS+20 Digital Agenda In New York

Telecoms: Tijani Highlights Measures To Track Fraudulent Phone Calls, Communication In Nigeria’s Space

Consumer Protection: Lagos Proposes Jail Term For Landlords’ Harassment In New Tenancy Bill

Members of the Senate Committee present at the meeting included Senator Simon Bako Lalong, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Electoral Matters, Senators Adams Oshiomhole, Tony Nwoye, Ireti Kingibe, Ede Dafinone, Emma Nwachukwu, Kelvin Chukwu and Sunday Katum.

Speaking at the forum, Amupitan acknowledged the Senate Committee on Electoral Matters as a critical pillar in Nigeria’s democratic architecture.

He also submitted the Committee’s legislative and oversight responsibilities have directly impacted the stability and credibility of the country’s electoral system.

The INEC Chairman commended the Nigerian Senate for the rigorous confirmation process that preceded his appointment.

He equally described the engagement as a demonstration of institutional collaboration anchored on constitutional principles.

Relating events in the early days of his tenure as the INEC Chairman, Amupitan recalled how the Commission was immediately confronted with the conduct of the Anambra governorship election November 8, 2025.

He affirmed that the Anambra State gubernatorial election was successfully concluded in a single day.

The development was regarded as a notable departure from previous experiences, and the outcome was attributed to effective inter-agency cooperation and the support of the National Assembly, and other stakeholders.

The Chairman as well said the electoral exercise in the South-East state provided valuable lessons and insights into areas requiring further improvement, particularly in logistics and operational efficiency.

Nigeria’s electoral system, stated Amupitan, operates within a tripartite framework, comprising the country’s Constitution, the Electoral Act, and INEC’s Regulations and Guidelines.

Though the Commission is empowered to conduct elections and issue regulations, the INEC Chief emphasised that these responsibilities must remain consistent with the provisions of the Nigerian Constitution and the laws enacted by the NASS.

He, therefore, applauded the Federal Legislature for granting INEC the opportunity to contribute to the ongoing process of constitutional and electoral amendments in the country.

Electoral reforms, infrastructure and voter education are core priorities, says Amupitan

Unveiling his vision for INEC, Amupitan stated that supporting the NASS in achieving meaningful electoral reforms remains a core priority of his leadership.

He also stressed the need to strengthen existing infrastructure, and deploy technology in a manner that enhances transparency, credibility, and inclusiveness in the electoral process.

The Chairman acknowledged the challenges associated with public perception and expectations.

He emphasised the significance of adhering to constitutionalism, due process, and institutional boundaries in the conduct of elections.

According to him, voter education is equally a critical mandate that will receive increased attention under his leadership.

Amupitan restated that citizens’ informed participation is essential to the integrity and credibility of elections.

The Chairman as well explained the central role of logistics in electoral success.

He observed that preparations for forthcoming elections, including the FCT Area Council election and other off-cycle elections scheduled for 2026, are closely linked to the timely conclusion of electoral reforms by the National Assembly.

Earlier in his remarks at the stakeholder engagement, Senator Lalong, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Electoral Matters, had welcomed Prof. Amupitan and his delegation.

He described the interactive forum as a significant milestone in the Nigeria’s efforts at strengthening democratic institutions.

The Chairman of the Senate Committee also restated the central role of INEC in shaping public confidence in governance.

Senator Lalong submitted that credible elections remain fundamental to democratic legitimacy in Nigeria.

He congratulated Prof. Amupitan, INEC Chairman, on his appointment.

The Federal legislator as well observed that Amupitan assumed office at a time of heightened public expectations and evolving challenges, including technological innovation, voter education, electoral security, logistics and public trust.

Lalong, therefore, assured INEC of the Senate Committee’s readiness to provide legislative support, constructive oversight, and policy guidance to enable INEC to effectively discharge its constitutional mandate.

According to him, the interactive session was designed to promote frank dialogue and institutional collaboration rather than ceremonial engagement.

Reiterating the Committee’s commitment to electoral reforms through legislation and budgetary support, Senator Lalong stressed that legislative oversight is not interference.

Respect for INEC’s constitutional independence remains a guiding principle, he said.

Kindly Share This Story