RismadarVoice Reporters May 1, 2026
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has formally received a newly appointed National Commissioner, Rear Admiral Jamila Abubakar Sadiq Manafa (rtd.), following her swearing-in by the President, Bola Tinubu.
Speaking during the reception at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja, INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, described the appointment as both timely and strategic, coming at a critical phase in the Commission’s electoral calendar.
He noted that the development restores full representation for the North-East geopolitical zone after more than a year of vacancy, a move he said would strengthen the Commission’s deliberations and decision-making processes as it intensifies preparations for upcoming electoral activities.
Amupitan highlighted the new Commissioner’s diverse professional background, which spans legal practice, military service, and logistics management. According to him, her experience is expected to significantly enhance electoral planning, improve security coordination, and support the resolution of electoral disputes.
Reaffirming INEC’s commitment to its constitutional mandate, the Chairman stressed that the Commission remains focused despite emerging challenges. He disclosed that preparations are underway for a series of electoral engagements, including by-elections and other off-cycle polls ahead of the 2027 General Election.
He explained that these elections will serve as critical benchmarks for assessing and strengthening the Commission’s operational readiness for the presidential and National Assembly elections scheduled for January 2027, as well as governorship and state assembly elections in February of the same year.
Amupitan urged the new Commissioner to actively engage in the Commission’s activities, collaborate with colleagues, and leverage INEC’s institutional experience to support the delivery of credible, transparent, and inclusive elections.
In her remarks, Rear Admiral Manafa expressed appreciation to the Commission’s leadership for the warm reception, describing INEC as a “new professional family.”
She acknowledged references to her military background and expressed confidence that her experience would contribute meaningfully to the Commission’s operations.
“I pray and hope that we are going to work together for the development and stability of this country. In God we stand and in God we serve,” she said.
The Commissioner also offered prayers for the success of the upcoming elections and the safety of all personnel involved in the electoral process.
She expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve, noting that she was honoured to take on the responsibility in her new role.
