Federal Government Hails INEC Chair Amupitan On Prestigious UNIJOS Award

The Federal Government has congratulated the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan, SAN, on his conferment with the ‘Great Ambassador of the University of Jos’ award.

In a letter signed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, the Federal Government described the honour as “a fitting tribute to Amupitan’s lifelong commitment to academic excellence, legal scholarship, and selfless national service.”

The award was presented during the University of Jos’ 50th Alumni Anniversary and combined 35th and 36th Convocation Ceremonies held on Friday, December 12, 2025, at the institution’s main campus in Jos, Plateau State.

According to the letter, referenced SGF.5/S.4/T/867 and dated December 15, 2025, Akume said the recognition by the University of Jos went beyond an alumni commendation, noting that it validated the INEC Chairman’s far-reaching impact on the nation.

“This prestigious honour is a fitting tribute to your exemplary leadership, sterling public service, and enduring commitment to democratic governance, national development, and institutional integrity,” the SGF stated.

Akume further praised Amupitan’s leadership at the electoral commission, commending his push for institutional reform and professionalism.

“Your contributions to the strengthening of Nigeria’s electoral process, coupled with your personal values of professionalism, accountability, and patriotism, have continued to inspire confidence and earn respect both nationally and internationally,” the statement added.

The SGF highlighted Amupitan’s long-standing relationship with the University of Jos, describing him as a “homegrown scholar” whose academic journey began and flourished within the institution.

LEADERSHIP reports that Amupitan obtained his LL.B (Hons) from the university in 1987 and was called to the Nigerian Bar the following year. He later earned an LL.M in 1993 and a Ph.D. in Law in 2007, all from UNIJOS, before rising to become a Professor of Law in 2008.

“By this award, the University of Jos has not only celebrated an illustrious alumnus but affirmed the positive impact of its graduates on the nation and beyond. You have remained a worthy ambassador of the University, reflecting its ideals of excellence, service, and responsible citizenship,” Akume said.

A renowned legal mind, Professor Amupitan was elevated to the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) in 2014, in recognition of his distinguished contributions to legal education and practice. With over 50 scholarly publications, his expertise spans the Law of Evidence, Corporate Governance, Company Law, Privatisation Law, and Nigeria’s Electoral Jurisprudence.

Before his appointment as INEC Chairman, Amupitan held several top academic and administrative positions, including Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Dean of the Faculty of Law (2008–2014), and Member of the Governing Council at UNIJOS. He also served as Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council at Joseph Ayo Babalola University (JABU).

The Federal Government expressed optimism that the recognition would further inspire Amupitan in his quest to deliver credible and transparent electoral processes.

“As you continue to serve the nation with distinction, please accept my best wishes for continued good health, wisdom, and success in your noble responsibilities. May this recognition further inspire you to greater heights of service to Nigeria and humanity at large,” the SGF wrote.

The “Great Ambassador” award is regarded as one of the highest honours bestowed by the University of Jos on its alumni, reserved for distinguished individuals who have attained excellence in their careers while upholding the highest ethical standards.