INEC Welcomes New National Commissioner, Says Appointment Timely

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has welcomed the appointment of a new National Commissioner, Rear Admiral Jamila Abubakar Sadiq Malafa (retd), following her swearing-in by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan described the appointment as timely, noting that it comes at a critical period as the commission intensifies preparations for upcoming electoral activities.

In a statement shared on the commission’s official X handle, Yakubu said the appointment fills a longstanding vacancy in the North-East geopolitical zone, which had remained unrepresented for over a year.

He added that restoring full representation would enhance the commission’s decision-making processes as it prepares for future elections.

The INEC chairman also highlighted Malafa’s professional background, noting that her experience in legal practice, military service, and logistics management would strengthen key operational areas, including election planning, security coordination, and dispute resolution.

Yakubu reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to its constitutional mandate, stressing that INEC remains focused on delivering credible elections despite existing challenges.

He disclosed that preparations are already underway for several off-cycle 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.

According to him, lessons from the exercises will aid preparations for the presidential and National Assembly elections scheduled for January 2027, as well as governorship and state assembly polls expected in February 2027.

He urged the new commissioner to contribute actively to the commission’s work by collaborating with colleagues and leveraging institutional experience to support the delivery of transparent, credible, and inclusive elections across the country.