WorldStage– The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan, SAN, has presented a reform-focused agenda to the Senate Committee on Electoral Matters, outlining electoral reforms, infrastructure strengthening and voter education as key priorities for improving Nigeria’s electoral process.
Prof. Amupitan disclosed this during his maiden interactive session with the Committee today, at the Senate New Wing, marking his first formal engagement with lawmakers since assuming office.
Addressing the Committee, Prof. Amupitan described the Senate Committee on Electoral Matters as a vital pillar of Nigeria’s democratic framework, noting that its legislative and oversight functions play a critical role in shaping the credibility and stability of the electoral system. He thanked the Senate for the confirmation process that preceded his appointment, describing it as a reflection of constitutional governance and inter-institutional cooperation.
The INEC Chairman recalled that shortly after assuming office, the Commission successfully conducted the Anambra Governorship Election on November 8, 2025, which was concluded in a single day. He attributed the outcome to effective inter-agency collaboration and the support of the National Assembly and other stakeholders, noting that the exercise provided important lessons for improving logistics and operational efficiency.
He emphasized that Nigeria’s electoral process is guided by the Constitution, the Electoral Act and INEC’s Regulations and Guidelines, stressing that while the Commission is empowered to conduct elections and issue regulations, such actions must align with constitutional and legislative provisions. He commended the National Assembly for involving INEC in ongoing constitutional and electoral amendment processes.
According to Prof. Amupitan, supporting the National Assembly in achieving meaningful electoral reforms remains a top priority of his administration. He also highlighted the need for sustained investment in infrastructure and responsible deployment of technology to enhance transparency, credibility and inclusiveness in elections, while managing public expectations through strict adherence to due process and institutional boundaries.
The INEC Chairman further identified voter education as a key mandate that will receive renewed focus, stressing that informed citizen participation is essential to credible elections. He added that effective logistics planning is central to electoral success, noting that preparations for forthcoming elections, including the FCT Area Council and other off-cycle elections in 2026, are closely tied to the timely conclusion of electoral reforms by the National Assembly.
Earlier, Senator Simon Bako Lalong, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Electoral Matters, welcomed Prof. Amupitan and his team, describing the engagement as a significant step toward strengthening democratic institutions. He reaffirmed the importance of INEC in building public trust in governance and emphasized that credible elections are fundamental to democratic legitimacy.
Senator Lalong congratulated the INEC Chairman on his appointment, noting that he assumed office amid rising public expectations and evolving challenges such as technological innovation, voter education, electoral security and logistics. He assured INEC of the Committee’s continued legislative support, constructive oversight and policy guidance, while emphasizing respect for the Commission’s constitutional independence.
The meeting, which underscored INEC’s commitment to institutional collaboration, was attended by the Commission’s National Commissioners, the Secretary to the Commission and the Chairman’s technical aides. Members of the Senate Committee present included its Chairman, Senator Simon Bako Lalong, alongside Senators Adams Oshiomhole, Tony Nwoye, Ireti Kingibe, Ede Dafinone, Emma Nwachukwu, Kelvin Chukwu and Sunday Katum.
