The newly inaugurated Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, on Thursday officially assumed duty at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja, describing his appointment as a divine call to serve.
Amupitan, who was sworn in earlier by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the State House, Abuja, succeeded May Agbamuche-Mbu, who had been the Acting Chairman of the Commission following the exit of Prof. Mahmood Yakubu.
During an interactive session with INEC directors shortly after taking over, Amupitan expressed gratitude to God for what he called a “divine assignment” and pledged to uphold integrity, transparency, and discipline in managing Nigeria’s electoral process.
“I am here for a purpose. Maybe if I had a choice, I would have said I would not come here. But from all indications, I can see that God is moving this country, and my coming is divine. With God saying go, who am I to say no? I am here because I have a role to play to ensure that a new Nigeria is birthed,” he said.
Amupitan, accompanied by his wife, children, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Jos, Tanko Ishaya, and other top officials from the institution where he previously served, assured staff that his leadership would prioritize their welfare and professional growth.
The new INEC Chairman emphasized the importance of teamwork, accountability, and commitment to credible elections, stressing that the success of the Commission depends on synergy across its departments and personnel.
He underscored the need to rebuild public confidence in the electoral system, saying Nigerians must believe that their votes truly count.
He said: “Our mandate is very clear. That is to deliver free, fair, and credible elections that reflect the will of the people. The integrity of our elections is not negotiable. Every voter must feel confident that their vote counts.
“For me, staff welfare is going to be a priority. We will expect a lot from you, and because of that, you also deserve to be well equipped and supported to deliver. We will work assiduously to ensure that your working conditions are conducive and that you have the necessary resources to excel,” he stated.
Acknowledging the challenges ahead, especially the forthcoming Anambra governorship election, Amupitan said the poll would test INEC’s determination to maintain transparency and credibility.
“Together, let us uphold the values of democracy and work tirelessly for the credibility of our elections. The facts may be challenging, but if we stand united, there is nothing we cannot achieve.
“The eyes of the nation are upon us. We must rise to the occasion and demonstrate that we are capable of conducting elections that meet the expectations of Nigerians.
“I want to thank you for your commitment, your service, and I look forward to working closely with all of you as we embark on this very, very important mission.”
He praised Agbamuche-Mbu for her stewardship during the interim period and appreciated INEC staff for their dedication to duty. Amupitan urged the team to foster unity, dismantle silos, and strengthen democratic values through credible elections.
