Lagos: The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared its ambition to conduct free, fair, and credible elections by 2027, which it hopes will become a reference point across Africa. Prof. Joash Amupitan, Chairman of the commission, emphasized this goal while delivering his opening address at INEC’s 2026 Induction and Strategic Retreat in Lagos. The event was attended by commissioners, resident electoral commissioners, administrative secretaries, directors, and top management staff from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Amupitan highlighted the historic opportunity presented to rewrite the history of elections in Nigeria. He stressed that the eyes of over 200 million Nigerians and the entire continent are focused on INEC to deliver a landmark election in 2027. The chairman urged the commission’s officials to prepare for the demanding work ahead, with a clear goal of achieving a watershed moment in Nigeria’s election history.
Amupitan further detailed the commission’s mandate, which is built on five non-negotiable pillars: organizing elections free from interference, fair to all contestants and political parties, credible in the global community’s eyes, transparent in every process, and inclusive of all Nigerians. He emphasized that the 2027 elections must be technologically-driven and transparent, setting a continental standard.
The chairman also noted the importance of considering the new demographic of young voters who are digital natives, requiring real-time transparency. INEC’s duty, he said, is to prove to these tech-savvy voters that the commission can be trusted. By ensuring inclusive systems and reliable technology, INEC aims to secure the loyalty of Nigeria’s future electorate.
As a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Amupitan reaffirmed his commitment to the legal framework of elections, stating that the rule of law would be the commission’s operating system under his leadership. He also committed to staff welfare, providing the necessary tools and environment for success. However, he warned against any compromise on values or processes, stating that misconduct would have consequences.
Before the 2027 elections, INEC plans to conduct several critical polls, including the FCT Area Council Elections in February 2026 and off-cycle governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun States. These will serve as testing grounds for the commission’s preparedness. The retreat will deliberate on 17 thematic areas aimed at strengthening INEC’s operational capacity.
In his welcome address, Lagos Resident Electoral Commissioner, Prof. Ayobami Salami, described the retreat as a strategic platform for strengthening leadership capacity, deepening institutional understanding, and enhancing operational preparedness. He underscored the high public expectations for the electoral process and the necessity of early planning and strategic coordination as the nation moves towards the 2027 General Election.