The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has welcomed a newly appointed National Commissioner, Rear Admiral Jamila Abubakar Sadiq Malafa (retd), following her swearing-in by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
INEC Chairman Joash Amupitan said the appointment comes at an important time as the commission steps up preparations for future elections.
He described the move as both timely and strategic, especially given the current stage of INEC’s electoral calendar.
In a statement on INEC Nigeria’s X handle, he said the new commissioner’s appointment fills a long-standing vacancy in the North-East geopolitical zone, which had been without representation for over a year.
He noted that restoring full representation would improve the commission’s decision-making process as it prepares for upcoming electoral activities.
Amupitan also pointed to Malafa’s professional background, saying her experience in legal practice, military service and logistics management would strengthen key areas such as election planning, security coordination and handling electoral disputes.
The INEC chairman reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to its constitutional responsibilities, stressing that it remains focused despite challenges.
He added that preparations are already underway for several electoral exercises, including by-elections and other scheduled polls ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“These off-cycle elections will serve as important benchmarks in assessing and strengthening the commission’s operational readiness,” he said.
He explained that the lessons learned would help INEC prepare for the presidential and National Assembly elections scheduled for January 2027, as well as governorship and state assembly elections expected in February 2027.
Amupitan urged the new commissioner to actively engage in the commission’s work, collaborate with colleagues and make use of the institution’s experience to support the delivery of credible, transparent and inclusive elections across Nigeria.
