The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has strengthened its leadership with the induction of Rear Admiral Jamila Manafa as a National Commissioner.
This marks a step in its preparations for the 2027 general election.
Manafa, a retired naval officer, was received at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja shortly after her swearing-in by the President.
Her appointment effectively ends a year-long vacancy representing the North-East geopolitical zone, restoring INEC to full operational capacity at a critical time.
INEC Chairman, Joash Amupitan, described the appointment as both timely and strategic, coming as the Commission intensifies planning for the next electoral cycle.
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He noted that Manafa brings a rare combination of legal knowledge, military discipline and experience in logistics, qualities he said are vital for managing the complexities of elections in Nigeria.
According to him, her expertise will strengthen key areas such as electoral planning, security coordination and the resolution of disputes, while also enhancing the Commission’s readiness to tackle emerging challenges.
Providing an update on preparations, Amupitan reiterated that INEC remains focused and on course, despite the scale of the task ahead.
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He explained that the Commission is using off-cycle elections and by-elections as practical tests to refine its systems and processes ahead of the nationwide polls.
He also confirmed that the Presidential and National Assembly elections would be held in January 2027, while the Governorship and State Assembly elections would follow in February 2027.
National service
The Chairman urged the new Commissioner to quickly settle into her role and draw on the experience within the Commission to help deliver elections that are credible, transparent and inclusive.
In her response, Rear Admiral Manafa described her appointment as a call to national service, referring to INEC as her “new professional family.”
She expressed confidence that her years in the military had prepared her for the demands of public service, particularly at a time when the country is approaching another major democratic milestone.
Manafa emphasised the importance of unity, dedication and integrity in achieving successful elections, while also calling for divine guidance and protection for all electoral personnel.
She concluded by expressing hope that the Commission would work collectively towards strengthening Nigeria’s democracy and ensuring a stable transition in 2027.
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