KEY POINTS

• The Senate has confirmed Jamila Abubakar-Sadiq, a retired rear admiral, as INEC national electoral commissioner representing the North-East.

• Her confirmation followed a screening and recommendation by the Senate Committee on Electoral Matters.

• Senate President Godswill Akpabio expressed confidence that she will help strengthen Nigeria’s electoral system and promote credible elections.

The Nigerian Senate has confirmed the appointment of Jamila Abubakar-Sadiq, a retired rear admiral, as a national electoral commissioner of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, representing the North-East geopolitical zone. Her confirmation followed a formal request submitted to the upper legislative chamber by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on February 17.

The request was considered after the Senate Committee on Electoral Matters completed its review and screening process, which assessed the nominee’s qualifications, professional background, and integrity.

Bako Lalong, the senator representing Plateau South and chairman of the Senate Committee on Electoral Matters, presented the committee’s report during plenary. He stated that the committee carried out a comprehensive review of Abubakar-Sadiq’s curriculum vitae and conducted a formal screening session before recommending her confirmation.

According to Lalong, the committee evaluated her credentials, experience, professional exposure, and overall performance record before arriving at its decision. He explained that after a careful examination of all relevant documents and considering her qualifications and integrity, the committee found her suitable for the role.

Following the presentation of the report, the Senate approved the recommendation and confirmed her appointment as national electoral commissioner.

Akpabio Expresses Confidence in Nominee

Senate President Godswill Akpabio congratulated Abubakar-Sadiq on her confirmation and expressed optimism that she would contribute meaningfully to strengthening Nigeria’s electoral system.

Akpabio noted that her appointment comes at a critical time when Nigerians are demanding more credible and transparent elections. He highlighted the efforts of the National Assembly in enacting laws aimed at ensuring transparency and protecting the integrity of the electoral process.

He also expressed confidence that Abubakar-Sadiq would leverage her professional experience to enhance the work of the electoral commission and support efforts to ensure that every vote counts.

Akpabio further commended President Tinubu for continuing to appoint women into key public offices, describing it as a positive step toward broader inclusion and representation in governance.

With her confirmation, Abubakar-Sadiq is expected to join other commissioners in overseeing the activities of INEC and supporting the conduct of elections across the country.