President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has restated his commitment to enhancing Nigeria’s electoral framework, declaring that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) will be fully equipped through infrastructure, legal reform, and policy support to deliver on its constitutional mandate.
President Tinubu stated during the official launch event for the construction of a new INEC headquarters annexe in Abuja, the nation’s capital.
According to him, the new facility represents his administration’s commitment to equip the Commission with the necessary resources to ensure transparent, free, and fair elections.
“We are committed to ensuring that INEC is fully equipped, not only in infrastructure, but in law, policy and resources to carry out its constitutional mandate with courage, fairness and excellence,” the President said.
Describing “INEC as the backbone of Nigeria’s democratic journey,” President Tinubu highlighted that trustworthy elections are essential for building public confidence in the government.
He stressed that democratic institutions must be respected and handled with the utmost seriousness and honour.
“INEC’s role in conducting free, fair and credible elections is central to the trust our people place in their government, and in our democratic process. It is only right that such a pivotal institution is housed in a structure that reflects its national significance”, he noted
The new headquarters annexe, being constructed in the heart of the Federal Capital Territory, is expected to provide modern facilities that will serve as a hub for innovation, training, planning, and administrative efficiency within INEC.
“This new headquarters is a clear signal of our unwavering support for INEC’s autonomy. It will be more than just a building—it will be a centre for electoral transparency and democratic consolidation,” Tinubu said.
The President lauded the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister Nyesom Wike, for launching the project, calling it a significant advancement in strengthening Nigeria’s democratic framework.
“By initiating this project, the FCT Minister, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, has taken another important step toward the protection of our democracy in this country. I salute your vision, courage and commitment to the progress and development of our country,” the President said.
President Tinubu also applauded the leadership and staff of INEC for their dedication and resilience in strengthening the electoral process amid various challenges.
“Let me once again commend the leadership and staff of INEC for their dedication to face the challenge that is necessary and the courage to lay a stronger foundation for our democracy,” he said.
Additionally, the President emphasised the need for high standards, transparency, and efficiency, urging contractors and supervisors to approach the task as a patriotic responsibility.
“To the contractors, supervisors and stakeholders involved in this project, let quality, speed, integrity and transparency guide your work. You are not just building an edifice; you are building trust in our nation,” he declared.
President Tinubu used the occasion to remind citizens of their shared responsibility in nurturing and defending democracy.
“To all Nigerians, I say this democracy is not a destination but a journey. Together, let us strengthen our institutions, safeguard our freedom and protect the future,” he urged.