Nigeria’s political landscape has taken a new turn as Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN) has been appointed the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), following the completion of Professor Mahmood Yakubu’s 10-year tenure in October 2025.

The appointment was unanimously approved by the National Council of State during its meeting on Thursday at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. The news was confirmed in a post on X by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who presented Amupitan’s name to the Council, described the appointment as a major step toward ensuring “renewed trust and transparency” in Nigeria’s electoral process.

Who Is Professor Joash Amupitan?

Amupitan, aged 58, is a Professor of Law from Kogi State and a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) known for his strong stance on constitutional and electoral reform. His nomination marks the first time someone from Nigeria’s North-Central region will lead the electoral body.

With a career spanning over three decades in academia and law, Amupitan has served as Dean of Law and contributed to several national dialogues on electoral justice, rule of law, and civic integrity. His appointment is widely seen as an attempt by the Tinubu administration to inject fresh credibility into INEC ahead of future elections.

Council of State’s Unanimous Backing

The National Council of State, made up of former presidents, governors, and top government officials, reportedly gave unanimous approval for Amupitan’s appointment. Sources at the meeting said there was a shared belief that “a legal mind of integrity” was needed to reposition INEC after years of controversy surrounding electoral credibility.

The Council also commended outgoing chairman Professor Mahmood Yakubu for what it called “a decade of institutional reform and digital modernization,” referencing his introduction of the BVAS system and improved result transmission.

What This Might Means for Nigeria’s Democracy

Analysts say the appointment of Professor Joash Amupitan as INEC Chairman could signal a new phase in Nigeria’s democratic evolution — especially as calls for electoral transparency, youth inclusion, and lower political costs intensify nationwide.

Observers will be watching closely to see whether Amupitan can strengthen INEC’s independence, deepen voter confidence, and deliver on promises of a more transparent and technology-driven electoral process.