By Nkechi Eze
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to strengthening public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral process as it begins strategic planning for the 2026 off-cycle elections and the 2027 General Election.
The declaration was made by the Chairman of the Commission, Prof. Joash Amupitan, SAN, on Tuesday during a Leadership Workshop organised by the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) for INEC leadership, held from January 13 to 15, 2026, at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Ikeja, Lagos State.
Describing the workshop as timely, Prof. Amupitan noted that the Commission is navigating a critical period of leadership transition, following the retirement of several directors and senior management personnel who have served the nation with distinction. He emphasised that institutional continuity should be anchored not merely on structures, but on clarity of purpose, integrity of leadership, and unity of vision.
“Continuity does not imply sameness; it is the ability to faithfully carry forward INEC’s constitutional mandate while adapting to emerging realities with insight and resolve,” he said.
Looking ahead to the 2026 off-cycle elections and the 2027 General Election, Prof. Amupitan stressed that Nigerians expect an electoral management body that is independent, transparent, professional and credible. He explained that these expectations underpin the Commission’s ongoing induction and strategic retreat aimed at setting a clear direction for 2027 and beyond.
Acknowledging that public confidence in the electoral process remains fragile despite reforms between 2015 and 2023, the INEC Chairman warned that democracy cannot thrive without trust. He highlighted the increasing threat of misinformation and disinformation, noting, “In an era where fake news travels faster than the truth, INEC is often compelled to defend its integrity against orchestrated falsehoods even before the first vote is cast.”
Prof. Amupitan reiterated that under his leadership, the Commission remains committed to delivering free, fair, credible, transparent and inclusive elections, in strict compliance with the Constitution, the Electoral Act 2022, and the Commission’s Regulations and Guidelines. He stressed that rebuilding public confidence is a daily operational responsibility that guides every decision of the Commission.
The leadership workshop, which convened the Chairman, all National Commissioners and senior management staff, reflects INEC’s belief in collective leadership and shared responsibility in addressing electoral risks while seizing emerging opportunities.
Speaking at the event, IFES Regional Director for Africa and Country Director for Nigeria, Mr. Seray Jah, said the workshop marks the early strategic phase of Nigeria’s preparations for the 2027 General Election. He emphasised that the credibility of elections is shaped by decisions taken early in the electoral cycle.
Mr. Jah, who highlighted IFES’ long-standing partnership with INEC since 1998, explained that the workshop provides an opportunity to reflect on emerging challenges, including complex logistics, the responsible use of technology, misinformation and AI-driven risks, internal coordination, and sustaining public trust in a highly polarised environment.
He also reaffirmed IFES’ commitment to supporting INEC throughout the 2027 electoral cycle and beyond, while acknowledging the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office’s (FCDO) support in promoting electoral integrity and democratic governance in Nigeria.
The three-day workshop brought together INEC National Commissioners, senior management personnel, and international partners to deliberate on strategic opportunities and challenges in electoral administration, with a focus on leadership, institutional resilience, and the critical role of public confidence in ensuring credible elections.
