The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has assured Nigerians that every valid vote cast in the 2027 general elections will count, reaffirming its commitment to delivering free, fair, and credible polls.
INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan (SAN), gave the assurance during a courtesy visit to former Head of State and Chairman of the National Peace Committee, Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar (retd.), at his residence in Minna, Niger State, on Friday.
Amupitan, who led a delegation of National Commissioners, the Commission’s Secretary, Directors, and Technical Aides, described Abdulsalami as the “father of Nigeria’s democracy,” noting that his successful transition to civilian rule in 1999 laid the foundation for the country’s current democratic system.
He also commended the former Head of State for his leadership of the National Peace Committee, saying the Peace Accord initiative has continued to encourage political actors to embrace non-violence and respect the will of the electorate.
According to the INEC Chairman, despite the challenges confronting the Commission, it remains resolute in ensuring that election outcomes accurately reflect the choices of Nigerians.
He said the Commission is determined to restore public confidence in the electoral process by guaranteeing that every vote is counted and properly reflected in election results.
Amupitan also officially announced that the Presidential and National Assembly elections will be held on January 16, 2027, while the Governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections are scheduled for February 6, 2027.
In his response, Abdulsalami described the office of the INEC Chairman as one of the most demanding positions in the country, citing the enormous expectations and pressures from political stakeholders.
He urged Nigerians to support the Commission, stressing that the success of Nigeria’s democracy depends on the confidence and cooperation of citizens and political actors.
The former Head of State expressed confidence in Amupitan’s leadership, encouraging him to remain impartial and steadfast in the discharge of his responsibilities. He also pledged the continued support and prayers of the National Peace Committee ahead of the 2027 elections.
Earlier, during an interactive session with staff at the INEC office in Niger State, Amupitan charged electoral officials to uphold integrity and professionalism, describing them as the Commission’s “grassroots foot soldiers” whose conduct directly shapes public trust in the electoral process.
He urged Electoral Officers and other field personnel to see themselves as ambassadors of the Commission and emphasized that their commitment is critical to ensuring every vote counts.
The INEC Chairman also disclosed that the Commission is reviewing staff welfare packages, noting that conditions of service he met upon assuming office ranked among the poorest across public institutions.
He said improving staff welfare remains a priority as part of efforts to strengthen the Commission ahead of the 2027 general elections.
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