… Pledges Support for Electoral Integrity
By Divine Sam
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially laid the foundation stone for the construction of a new National Headquarters Annex for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Abuja, marking a significant step in fortifying Nigeria’s democratic infrastructure.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony held in the Maitama District of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), President Tinubu described the project as a strategic investment in the future of Nigeria’s democracy. He noted that beyond its architectural significance, the new building would serve as a symbol of the nation’s unwavering commitment to credible elections, institutional independence, and democratic consolidation.
“This project is more than just a building,” the President said. “It stands as a testament to the strength of our democracy, the autonomy of our electoral body, and our dedication to transparent and credible elections. INEC plays a foundational role in our democratic journey, and it is only fitting that it operates from a facility that reflects its national importance.”
President Tinubu further stated that the annex will offer a modern, conducive working environment and serve as a center for innovation, strategy development, staff training, and operational transparency in election management.
“Our democracy is evolving, and so must the institutions that protect it,” he added. “We are committed to providing INEC not only with the physical infrastructure it requires but also the legal and financial tools to discharge its duties with professionalism and integrity.”
The event was attended by key dignitaries, including FCT Minister Nyesom Wike; Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas; Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin; Deputy Speaker, Hon. Benjamin Kalu; Minister of State for FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud; and INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu. Others present included political party representatives and members of civil society.
In his remarks, Minister Wike clarified that the project was not an isolated initiative of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) as speculated. He explained that the annex was among a series of infrastructural projects approved by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) in March 2025, aimed at strengthening key government institutions.
He assured President Tinubu that the building will be completed before the end of the current administration’s tenure in 2027.
INEC Chairman Prof. Mahmood Yakubu expressed gratitude to the President and the FCT Administration, noting that the commission’s operational demands had long outgrown its current headquarters, which was built in 1997 for a much smaller organizational structure.
“The commission has expanded significantly over the years, from eight commissioners and 10 departments to 13 commissioners, 22 departments, and over 1,000 staff,” Yakubu said. “The new annex is long overdue and will help alleviate the strain on our infrastructure.”
According to Yakubu, the new facility will feature office spaces, conference rooms, a 1,000-seat auditorium, a technology-driven Election Monitoring and Support Centre (EMSC), and a museum documenting Nigeria’s electoral history — a first of its kind.
He added that the original INEC headquarters would remain operational, while the annex would boost capacity and efficiency.
“This project is the culmination of nearly a decade of advocacy and planning. Today marks a turning point for the commission, and we are thankful for the political will and partnership that made it possible,” Yakubu concluded.
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