Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan has emphasized that meticulous planning, efficient logistics, and strong inter-agency collaboration remain central to the successful conduct of elections in Nigeria. This was contained in the INEC Daily Bulletin, Volume 2, Number 441 of March 10, 2026.
Prof. Amupitan stated this on Tuesday at the Commission’s Headquarters in Abuja while receiving the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, who paid him a courtesy visit alongside senior officers of the Nigerian Air Force.
Describing the visit as timely and reassuring, the INEC Chairman said the Commission considers its partnership with the Nigerian Air Force a critical component of electoral success, particularly as preparations intensify for forthcoming off-cycle elections and the 2027 General Election.
“The election can only be as good as the logistics,” Prof. Amupitan declared. “Failure to plan is planning to fail. Nigerians are looking ahead to the next general election, and they expect the best from us.”
He noted that the Commission has already released the timetable and schedule of activities for the 2027 General Election pursuant to the Electoral Act 2026, with the Presidential and National Assembly elections scheduled for January 16, 2027, and the Governorship and State Assembly elections slated for February 16, 2027.
According to him, the Commission is fully aware of the scale and complexity of conducting elections across Nigeria’s vast terrain and challenging locations, adding that logistics remains one of the most decisive factors in electoral credibility.
“We recognize the ongoing challenges we face, particularly in deploying personnel and materials to difficult terrains. That is why this collaboration is not just important. It is necessary,” he said.
The INEC Chairman expressed appreciation for the Nigerian Air Force’s consistent support in previous elections, including the November 2025 Anambra governorship election, the February 2026 FCT Area Council election, and several by-elections conducted across the country.
“At very short notice, you were able to deliver. Even when we encountered minor challenges, you stepped in promptly to ensure there were no logistical gaps,” he said. “Your efforts have played a crucial role in facilitating smooth electoral processes and reinforcing public confidence.”
Prof. Amupitan stressed that credible elections must not only comply with the law but must also command legitimacy in the eyes of citizens.
“Our objective is clear, to strike the necessary link between legality and legitimacy. And that link is strengthened when logistics are seamless and security is assured,” he added.
To further institutionalize cooperation, the INEC Chairman disclosed that the Commission would establish a joint technical team to deepen operational planning and coordination with the Nigerian Air Force ahead of major electoral engagements.
“We are going to engage ahead of time. Early planning, detailed timelines, clarity on deployment sizes and locations, all these are essential. If we work together proactively, we can address challenges before they arise,” he said.
Earlier, in his remarks, Air Marshal Aneke congratulated Prof. Amupitan on his appointment and commended the Commission’s reform initiatives, particularly measures aimed at enhancing inclusiveness and operational efficiency.
“Nigeria remains the largest democracy on the African continent, and the resilience of our democratic system continues to be sustained by strong institutions such as INEC,” he said.
The Air Chief pledged that the Nigerian Air Force remains “willing, able and ready” to provide airlift support for sensitive and non-sensitive electoral materials, as well as personnel deployment to remote areas. He also disclosed that heavy and medium-lift aircraft are undergoing periodic maintenance to ensure full readiness.
Beyond logistics, he revealed that the Air Force would deploy Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) platforms, including drones and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), to enhance monitoring of the electoral environment.
“These assets can remain airborne for extended periods and assist in the early detection of potential security threats,” he stated.
Air Marshal Aneke also underscored the importance of joint simulation exercises, noting that rehearsal helps to identify potential operational gaps before the main event.
Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to sustained collaboration, expressing confidence that strengthened coordination between INEC and the Nigerian Air Force will contribute significantly to the conduct of secure, orderly, and credible elections across the country.
END
