By Nkechi Eze
The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, SAN, has described 2026 as a “season of renewal” for the Commission, renewing his commitment to staff welfare while tasking personnel nationwide to rise to the electoral responsibilities that lie ahead.
In a rare and deeply personal New Year message addressed to National Commissioners, Resident Electoral Commissioners and staff across the country, the INEC Chairman reaffirmed that the wellbeing of employees would remain central to his administration, stressing that a motivated and protected workforce is critical to the delivery of credible elections in Nigeria.
Reflecting on the journey so far, Prof. Amupitan expressed profound gratitude for the support and cooperation he has received since assuming office on October 23, 2025. He noted that the period had tested the resilience and professionalism of the Commission, particularly with the successful conduct of the Anambra State Governorship Election, which he described as a defining moment that reaffirmed INEC’s institutional strength.
According to him, the dedication, discipline and unity displayed by staff during the Anambra election underscored the Commission’s capacity to safeguard the sanctity of the ballot. He said the experience demonstrated that INEC remains well-equipped to defend Nigeria’s democracy, even under intense public scrutiny and operational pressure.
Looking ahead, the INEC Chairman reminded staff that 2026 would be a demanding year, marked by a busy electoral calendar. He charged personnel to prepare diligently for the Federal Capital Territory Area Council Elections scheduled for February, as well as the off-cycle governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun states. Beyond these immediate engagements, he emphasized that preparations for the next General Elections must continue with renewed focus and urgency.
Prof. Amupitan expressed strong confidence that, through collective commitment and teamwork, the Commission would deliver elections that are free, fair, credible and inclusive, in line with the expectations and aspirations of Nigerians. He urged staff at all levels to deepen their faith in the Nigerian project and to see their roles as critical to national stability and democratic growth.
At the heart of his message was a renewed emphasis on internal cohesion within the Commission. The Chairman reiterated his inaugural pledge to build a workplace anchored on equity, discipline and mutual respect, assuring staff that his leadership would continue to promote an environment where every employee feels valued, supported and protected. He encouraged personnel to embrace the opportunities ahead with a spirit of excellence, describing the goal as building an INEC that is “trusted by all and sundry.”
He concluded the message on a note of hope and goodwill, offering prayers for good health, peace and prosperity for INEC staff and their families, as they collectively work toward achieving new milestones for the Commission and for Nigeria’s democracy in the year ahead.
