The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has inaugurated its Electoral Logistics Committee, ELOC, to strengthen preparations for the 2027 general election, with a focus on the timely and secure distribution of election materials across the country.
The committee is chaired by National Electoral Commissioner, retired Rear Admiral Jamila Abubakar-Sadiq.
At the inauguration at INEC headquarters in Abuja, Chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan, described logistics as one of the most critical pillars of the electoral process, stressing that the success of an election depends largely on the availability of essential materials at polling units at the appointed time.
He added that the inauguration of the committee was a proactive measure to address the complexities of transporting sensitive and non-sensitive election materials across Nigeria’s diverse geographical terrain by road, air and water.
Amupitan said the committee would adopt a multi-agency approach, drawing on the expertise of military and paramilitary institutions, security agencies and relevant transport organisations to ensure effective coordination and operational efficiency.
He further explained that the committee’s terms of reference include assessing the overall logistical requirements for the 2027 elections, developing comprehensive plans for the storage, distribution, deployment and retrieval of election materials, and auditing the readiness of warehouses, vehicles, airports, seaports and other transport facilities.
Other responsibilities include identifying logistical gaps, ensuring timely delivery of materials to all parts of the country, monitoring compliance with approved schedules and developing strategies to address transportation bottlenecks, shortages and security threats.
Amupitan urged committee members to demonstrate dedication and professionalism, noting that Nigeria’s varied geographical conditions, from the creeks of the Niger Delta to the arid northern regions, require flexible and resilient logistical arrangements.
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The National Electoral Commissioner responsible for security, retired Rear Admiral Jamila Abubakar-Sadiq, said the committee was expected to develop a strategic logistics plan informed by lessons from previous elections, identify systemic vulnerabilities and establish mechanisms for the seamless deployment of election materials.
She added that the committee would develop appropriate transportation and security arrangements for high-risk locations and submit a comprehensive report containing actionable recommendations and strict operational timelines.
The electoral commissioner also proposed the establishment of specialised subcommittees to focus on airlift operations, land transportation, maritime transportation, storage and security, where necessary.
She noted that the Central Bank of Nigeria would receive, store and distribute sensitive election materials through its nationwide branch network, while effective inter-agency cooperation would be critical to the committee’s success.
The committee is also expected to coordinate with relevant government institutions, state offices, transport unions and other stakeholders to facilitate the secure and efficient movement of election materials.
The inauguration was attended by INEC national commissioners, representatives of the Chief of Defence Staff and service chiefs, as well as officials of the Nigeria Immigration Service, Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria and Nigerian Ports Authority.
Other key players represented included the Nigerian Union of Road Transport Workers, the Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners, maritime workers and other relevant transport and security institutions.
The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, was represented at the event by CP Abayomi Shogunle.
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(Editor: Ada Ononye)
