Abuja, Nigeria – President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday administered the oath of office to Professor Joash Amupitan, the newly appointed Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), tasking him with safeguarding the integrity of Nigeria’s elections. Shortly after his swearing-in, Amupitan arrived at the INEC headquarters in Maitama to officially commence his tenure.
Speaking at the State House following the oath, Tinubu described credible elections as the bedrock of any democracy and urged Amupitan to protect the electoral process and the institutional capacity of INEC. “I, therefore, urge you, Professor Amupitan, as you take on this assignment, to protect the integrity of our elections and the electoral process, and to uphold the institutional capacity of INEC,” the President said. He also wished Amupitan success in overseeing the November 2025 Anambra State governorship election.
Tinubu highlighted that Amupitan’s nomination and confirmation reflect the confidence of both the executive and legislative arms of government in his competence and integrity. “This marks the beginning of a challenging yet rewarding journey, and I trust that you will approach your responsibilities with the highest level of integrity, dedication, and patriotism,” the President added.
Amupitan, who succeeds Professor Mahmood Yakubu—the longest-serving INEC Chairman—pledged to uphold the Constitution and work with all stakeholders, including political parties, civil society organisations, and security agencies, to ensure free, fair, and credible elections. “No matter how well you design the system, success requires the cooperation of all stakeholders,” he said.
Later in the afternoon, at exactly 2:27 pm, Amupitan arrived at the INEC headquarters in Maitama in a white coaster bus, accompanied by a motorcade of National Commissioners. Clad in a white babariga with a matching Yoruba traditional cap, he was formally introduced to the Commission’s Directors at 2:57 pm.
Accompanying him were his wife, who is reportedly a Professor, as well as senior officials from the University of Jos, including the Vice Chancellor, Deputy Vice Chancellor (from his tenure as Deputy VC), the Registrar, the Bursar, and the University Librarian.
Amupitan’s appointment was recently cleared by the Senate following endorsement by the National Council of State. Observers note that his leadership will be critical as Nigeria prepares for major upcoming elections, starting with the Anambra governorship in November 2025.
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Reporting by Naija247news in Lagos, Nigeria.
