2027 Polls: Institute Alumni Seek Strategic Partnership With INEC

The chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, yesterday received a delegation from the Alumni Association of the National Institute for Security Studies (AANISS) during a courtesy visit to the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja.

The AANISS delegation, led by its president, Mike Ejiofor, said the visit was aimed at strengthening collaboration between the electoral body and Nigeria’s security institutions ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Ejiofor, a Fellow of the National Institute for Security Studies (FSI), led members of the association’s executive committee, which comprises senior officers from the Armed Forces, security and intelligence agencies, and regulatory institutions who have completed the prestigious course at the National Institute for Security Studies.

He explained that the association brings together strategic-level security professionals whose expertise is crucial to maintaining national stability, particularly during electoral cycles.

According to him, participation in the Institute’s programme, designed for top management personnel, would enhance the Commission’s understanding of the security dynamics surrounding electoral processes.

“With the enormous expectations placed on INEC as the country moves closer to the 2027 elections, it is important that the Commission is represented in the course to strengthen strategic coordination on electoral security,” he said.

Ejiofor also congratulated Amupitan on his appointment, noting that overseeing Nigeria’s electoral process carries enormous responsibility given the country’s population of over 200 million.

He further informed the Commission about the association’s upcoming 2nd Annual Lecture, scheduled to be held on March 26 at the NAAF Conference Centre.

The lecture, themed “Credible Elections and National Security,” will focus on strengthening public trust in the electoral system and promoting accountability in governance.

Ejiofor disclosed that the INEC Chairman had been selected as Chairman of the Occasion, while former Resident Electoral Commissioner, Mike Igini, will serve as the Guest Speaker.

He also urged the Commission to mobilise stakeholders and the public to participate in the lecture, which aims to sensitise citizens to the importance of credible elections.

Responding, Amupitan welcomed the delegation and described the visit as timely, highlighting the critical link between national security and credible elections.

He commended AANISS for its role in building the capacity of senior security officers and strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture.

“The integrity of elections is directly connected to national stability and security. Ensuring credible elections remain a top priority as Nigeria continues to deepen its democratic process,” Amupitan said.

He further assured the association of the Commission’s commitment to conducting free, fair, and credible elections through innovative approaches and sustained collaboration with security agencies and other stakeholders.