The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Professor Joash Amupitan has emphasized the critical link between credible Elections and National Security, describing peaceful and transparent elections as fundamental to Nigeria’s stability and democratic consolidation.
Amupitan said this when he received a delegation of the Alumni Association of the National Institute for Security Studies (ANNISS), led by its President, Mike Ejiofor at INEC’s headquarters in Abuja.
The visit is in preparations for the Association’s 2nd Annual Lecture themed ‘ Credible Elections and National Security in Nigeria’
Receiving the delegation, the INEC Chairman described the alumni’s annual lecture as timely, noting that the integrity of elections has direct implications for national peace and security.
Amupitan says peaceful conditions are essential for the conduct of free and fair elections, stressing the need for collaboration among security agencies, policymakers and other stakeholders.
He commended the group for its contributions to strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture through the training of senior officers across the armed forces, intelligence and regulatory agencies.
Amupitan reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to collaborating with security stakeholders, emphasizing that inter-agency synergy remains essential for the successful conduct of elections.
The Leader of the delegation, Mike Ejiofor highlighted the importance of stronger institutional engagement between INEC and security professionals, especially in preparations towards the upcoming Elections
He disclosed that the upcoming Annual Lecture will bring together security experts, civil society actors and electoral stakeholders to explore practical measures for strengthening electoral integrity.
Both institutions reaffirmed their commitment to sustained dialogue and cooperation in safeguarding Nigeria’s Democracy through credible and secure elections.
(Editor: Anoyoyo Ogiagboviogie)
