December 19, 2025

By Usman A Harande

In a significant development, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has sworn in two new National Commissioners of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) at the Aso Rock Presidential Villa in Abuja. The ceremony marks a crucial step in strengthening the electoral body’s leadership as the nation prepares for upcoming polls.

The two newly appointed commissioners are Alhaji Abdulrazaq Tukur Yusuf, representing the North West geopolitical zone, and Professor Sunday Nwambam Aja, representing the South East geopolitical zone.

Alhaji Abdulrazaq Tukur Yusuf: A Seasoned Electoral Expert

Yusuf brings a wealth of experience to the role, having worked in various senior and management capacities at INEC for over 24 years before retiring as a Director. His impressive academic credentials include a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Bayero University, Kano, a postgraduate diploma in Economics from Bradford University, England, and a Master of Arts degree from Leeds University, England. With his extensive background in electoral planning and administration, Yusuf is poised to make a meaningful contribution to INEC’s mission.

Professor Sunday Nwambam Aja: A Scholar with a Proven Track Record

Aja, a renowned scholar, has a distinguished academic career, with a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) degree in Guidance and Counselling from the University of Nigeria (UNN), Nsukka, a Master of Education (M.Ed) degree in Educational Administration and Planning, and a Doctorate (PhD) in the same discipline from Ebonyi State University. Before his appointment, Aja taught at Ebonyi State University from 2006, demonstrating his commitment to education and public service.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is the constitutional body responsible for organizing and conducting elections in Nigeria. Established in 1998, INEC plays a critical role in ensuring the integrity and transparency of the electoral process. The commission’s responsibilities include registering political parties, regulating campaign finances, and maintaining the voters’ register.

As INEC navigates the complexities of Nigeria’s electoral landscape, the new commissioners will be expected to bring their expertise and experience to bear on the commission’s operations. With the country’s electoral calendar packed with various polls, the appointments are timely and crucial for the success of the electoral process. The duo’s swearing-in marks a new chapter in INEC’s journey towards ensuring free, fair, and credible elections in Nigeria.

By providing oversight and ensuring the integrity of the electoral process, INEC plays a vital role in shaping Nigeria’s democratic future. With the new commissioners on board, the commission is poised to take a significant step forward in its pursuit of free, fair, and credible elections.

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