The integrity of Nigerian elections depends on national stability and security, according to Joash O. Amupitan, chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
“Credible elections remain a top priority as Nigeria continues to deepen its democratic process,” he declared.
During a courtesy visit to the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja, Amupitan welcomed a group from the Alumni Association of the National Institute for Security Studies (AANISS), highlighting the vital connection between legitimate elections and national security.
He praised AANISS for helping to develop Nigeria’s security architecture and increase the capability of senior security officials, claiming that national peace and security are closely linked to election integrity.
The group was further reassured by the INEC chairman of the Commission’s dedication to holding free, fair, and credible elections via creative methods and ongoing cooperation with security services and other relevant parties.
The group was led by AANISS President Mike Ejiofor, who clarified that the visit was intended to improve cooperation between the electoral body and Nigeria’s security organizations in advance of the 2027 general elections.
Members of the association’s executive committee, led by Ejiofor, a Fellow of the National Institute for Security Studies (FSI), include senior officers from the Armed Forces, security and intelligence agencies, and regulatory organizations who have finished the esteemed course at the FSI.
He clarified that the association brings together strategic-level security experts whose knowledge is essential to preserving national stability, especially during election cycles. He emphasized that the Commission’s comprehension of the security dynamics surrounding electoral processes will be improved by participation in the Institute’s program, which is intended for top management personnel.
“It is crucial that the Commission is represented in the course to strengthen strategic coordination on electoral security, given the high expectations placed on INEC as the country approaches the 2027 elections,” he clarified.
He congratulated Amupitan on his appointment, pointing out that, with a population of more than 200 million, managing Nigeria’s electoral process entails a great deal of responsibility.
