Dr Mustapha Abdullahi, DG Energy Commission of Nigeria; A Trail Blazer With A Midas Touch.

In the appointment of Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi as the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), stakeholders roundly commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the choice of this astute and result oriented energy expert and policy strategist, a visionary administrator.

The saying that a golden fish has no hiding place aptly qualifies Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi’s appointment by His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR , who was able to spot the energy poster boy, and placed him strategically where competence meets passion.

Indeed, the appointment of Dr. Abdullahi as the Director General of Energy Commission qualifies the saying of putting a round peg in a round hole.

Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi who combines academic distinction with hands-on experience in energy systems, regulation, and innovation, has variously been described by stakeholders as a key figure in shaping Nigeria’s energy future, scoring a vital point in the Renewed Hope Initiative of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, which clearly aims to resuscitate and reinvigorate the country’s energy sector.

As an avid scholar who holds a master’s and a doctorate in Engineering from the prestigious University of Manchester who has also served as a Research Associate and Teaching Assistant in the School of Mechanical, Aerospace, and Civil Engineering in same institution, Dr. Abdullahi’s penchant for excellence is distinctive and highly commendable.

As a Chartered Engineer (CEng) and a member of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (MIMechE), Dr. Abdullahi has distinguished himself in ways so uncommon and achievements quite alluring.
His commitment to professional excellence and technical innovation underscores his capacity and capabilities in delivering on the mandate of the Energy Sector and the Commission generally.

As a Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of Manchester, United kingdom, from 2021 to 2023, Dr. Abdullahi conducted an impactful research entitled “Assessment of the Structural Integrity,” contributing valuable insights to the field. His work was recognized and supported by the Industry Collaboration Fund, United kingdom, highlighting his commitment to advancing knowledge through industry-academia collaboration.

Dr. Abdullahi has over 14 years of experience in Nigeria’s energy sector, particularly within the oil and gas industry and is known to have spent a significant part of his career at the Department of Petroleum Resources (now the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission -NUPRC), contributing to regulatory policy, energy systems management, and sustainability initiatives.

His technical competence is further complemented by his role at the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), where he engaged in research and development at the intersection of space and energy technology.

Before being appointed as Director-General of ECN, Dr. Abdullahi served as the Senior Technical Adviser to the former Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji. In that capacity, he was instrumental in shaping national policies that promoted innovation, renewable energy adoption, and scientific advancement.

His advisory role provided strategic direction for programmes aimed at building Nigeria’s technological capacity in line with global sustainability trends.

He is widely reputed to be a multi-disciplinary leader, with a systems-thinking approach to Nigeria’s energy challenges, integrating insights from engineering, space research, and policy.

Since assuming office as Director General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria ECN in 2023, keen observers say his leadership at the Commission is anchored in collaboration, stakeholder engagement, and a strong commitment to energy transition and security.

Dr. Abdullahi is focused on delivering sustainable, inclusive, and technology-driven energy solutions that support national development goals and align with international climate commitments.

Asides from his professional and academic accomplishments, he is also active in the politics of his country, Nigeria. He is a founding member and co-convener of The Asiwaju Group (TAG), one of the leading support groups for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu also having served as Deputy Chairman of the All Progressives Congress United Kingdom (APC UK) chapter, he is also an Executive Member of the APC UK since February 2014.

As a committed and loyal party chieftain, Abdullahi’s political engagements include membership in the APC Presidential Campaign Council (PCC) 2023, the APC PCC Nigeria Strategic Communication Committee (2019), and the APC National Convention Sub-Committee (2022).

He is widely respected for his integrity, strategic vision, and passion for sustainable development. His dynamic experience across sectors positions him as a transformative leader at the helm of Nigeria’s energy transition journey.

A peek into his two years stint as the Director General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria ECN reveals amazing achievements such as:

  • Implementation of the Renewed Hope Solarization Project for the provision of 2 MW of a solar hybrid system in 37 universities and 37 tertiary hospitals across the 36 states and Abuja.
    (2025)
    Signed a Memorandum of Understanding with China Energy Engineering Corporation to boost renewable energy and address Nigeria’s energy challenges by establishing State Energy Planning Implementation Units in all the 36 states in Nigeria.

(2025)
Signed an agreement with LONGI a China solar module manufacturer to establish a manufacturing plant of their new solar panel technology in Nigeria.

(2025)
Launched the Compendium on Industrial Energy Efficiency Policies with the collaboration of UNIDO and GEF.

(2025)
Commissioned a Hybrid 5 kilowatts solar-powered Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Station.

(2025)
Promotion of clean cooking and obtaining a Patent for developing a Hexagonal Type Domestic Charcoal Stove for improved thermal efficiency.

(2025)
Signed an MOU with a Chinese company to establish a Lithium battery production plant in Nigeria.

(2024)
Launched the newly gazette National Energy Policy (NEP)and National Energy Master Plan (NEMP) by the Federal Government of Nigeria.

(2024)
Establishment of a 10MW Solar PV Module Production Assembly Plant at Enugu Research Centre.

(2024)
Development of Pyrolysis Machine for Hydrogen Generation at Bauchi Research Centre.

(2024)
Establishment of a Pilot Bioethanol Plant with Fractional Distillation Unit at Benin Research Centre.

(2024)
Development of Pilot Integrated Modular Refinery at Bauchi Research Centre.

(2024)
The Energy Commission of Nigeria in collaboration with the FMIST on Implementation of the National Policy on Methanol Fuel Production from Gas.

(2024)
Launch of the Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) for air conditioners in collaboration with the United Nations Environment Programme, United for Efficiency initiative, and the Standards Organisation of Nigeria.

(2024)
Launched a Computerized National Energy Information System website in Collaboration with the ECOWAS Commission.

(2024)
Establishment of a Pilot Green Hydrogen Plant as a policy target of domestication and localization of Green Energy in the country.

(2024)
Establishment of Barefoot Renewable Energy College in Kogi State.

(2024)
The Energy Commission of Nigeria’s participation as the National Focal point at the Brazil G202024 Energy Transitions Working Group Meetings to negotiate and endorse Principles for Just and Inclusive Energy Transitions.

(2024)
Launched the implementation of the project titled ‘Abating Greenhouse Gas Emissions From Obsolete Refrigerators and Air Conditioners Equipment (AGORA) in Nigeria with the
collaboration of UNDP and UNEP.

(2024)
The Nigeria Energy and Emission Pathway Calculator 2050 (NECAL 2050)(2024) Comprehensive Energy Audit for the University of Lagos, Akoka carried out by National Centre for Energy Efficiency and Conservation.

(2024)
Designed, Constructed and Installed Two (2) 5kW Wind Turbines located at Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto (UDUS), Sokoto State.

(2023)
Design and development of the 24-CUP Pelton Wheel Single-Jet Small Hydropower Turbine System and the Split Cup Pelton Wheel Two-Jet Small Hydropower Turbine System by NACHRED, University of llorin)

(2023)
Design, Construction and Testing energy-efficient biomass Cookstoves by National Centre for Energy Research and Development, University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

(2023)
Development of Small, Medium and Commercial scale Solar Powered Chicken Brooding systems.

These achievements of Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi have been variously described as the footprints of a man of greatness, vision and exemplary leadership, deserving of commendation.

.

WHEN WORDS BECOME ARSON: HOW THREATS TO “GO TO ANY EXTENT” TO RECLAIM POWER IN KANO RISKS SETTING NORTHWEST ABLAZE

Politics is about ideas, not impunity. Law-breaking has no place in democracy. Words glorifying illegality sabotages democracy.

By Aminu Hussaini Sagagi

A single sentence, sharpened into a threat, can be the match that lights a tinderbox. That danger is not hypothetical in Kano. Recent public outbursts credited to Garba Kore – a well-known media influencer and a close associate of former Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje – in which the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is said to be willing to “go to any extent,” including breaking the law, to reclaim Kano from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), have been widely reported and have predictably set off alarm bells across the state and beyond.

His comments were not idle words. Kano has been the epicentre of bitter partisan contestation since 2023, when the NNPP wrested the governorship from the then ruling APC after a combative and polarising campaign.

The by-elections, defections and seat reclaims that followed – including the recent manipulated APC victory in the Ghari/Tsanyawa State Constituency – show how high the political temperature remains. When influential voices signal that legal limits can be discarded for political gain, they undermine the fragile rules that keep that heat from boiling over.

Why incendiary rhetoric matters? Experts have repeatedly warned that inflammatory political rhetoric heightens the risk of violence, especially in places where identity and political rivalry overlap. In fragile contexts, statement to “go to any extent, including breaking the law” are perceived as licences for extralegal action – from vote-rigging and intimidation to the mobilisation of thugs or deployment of complicit security agents – and can easily spiral into chaos.

The regional risk – The fallout will not stop in Kano. The Northwest is tightly interconnected by kinship, trade, and shared media networks; what happens in Kano echoes in Jigawa, Katsina, Kaduna, Sokoto, and beyond. A single violent episode could inflame old grievances and turn a political contest into a regional crisis. That is why, Garba Kore’s inflammatory words on taking over Kano State at all cost risk sparking Northwest Regional unrest.

Trust in democracy at stake – Democracy is not just about ballots; it rests on a shared belief in the rule of law. When politicians and their associates publicly boast about breaking laws to gain power, they corrode that belief. Citizens lose faith in elections and start to see force, not votes, as the path to justice. That is the death of democracy by a thousand reckless words.

A plea for anchor points – Responsible leadership demands restraint and accountability. Those who command influence, political operatives, party leaders, and media voices must retract, clarify, and apologise for inflammatory statements. If a remark was a careless exaggeration, withdraw it; if it was a genuine threat, law enforcement must step in. Security agencies must not remain silent. They must investigate, caution, and, where necessary, prosecute anyone inciting lawlessness or undermining public order. This is not about partisanship, it is about protecting the peace and upholding the Constitution.

Who pays the cost? — Ordinary Kano citizens do. Traders, farmers, students, and families will be the first to pay through lost livelihoods, fear and fractured communities. The short-term prize of “reclaiming power” cannot justify the long-term ruin of peace and trust.

The closing warning — Politics is a contest of ideas, not impunity. Parties have every right to campaign, contest and litigate – but none to declare law-breaking an option. In a nation still learning to walk the democratic path, words that glorify illegality are acts of sabotage against the people’s will.

Action now: Retract, reaffirm, and enforce. Political actors must withdraw reckless claims, party leaders must publicly reject calls for lawlessness, and law enforcement must take decisive, impartial action against anyone (including the privileged and protected rabble-rouser, Kore) whose words or actions endanger public peace. Institutions must stand firm. The alternative to this is grim – deepening distrust, recurring violence, and a democracy hollowed out from within.

Garba Kore’s unchecked threats on Kano State are capable of sparking instability in Northwest. His outbursts are like words on fire and the dangerous rhetorics risks inflaming regional instability.

This opinion piece was contributed by Barrister Aminu Hussaini Sagagi, Special Adviser to the Executive Governor of Kano State AKY, on Justice/Constitutional Matters.

Crisis Rocks Kaduna ADC as Chairman, Secretary Suspended Over Misconduct

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Kaduna State has suspended its State Chairman, Elder Patrick Ambut, and State Secretary, Mr. Victor Oluwatuyi, over allegations of anti-party activities, gross misconduct, and violation of the party’s constitution.

In a statement issued on Monday by the State Publicity Secretary, Engr. Idris Musa, the party said the suspension followed a meeting of the State Working Committee (SWC) convened after receiving petitions from the Igabi and Sabon Gari Local Government Chairmen, as well as complaints from other local chapters.

According to the statement, the suspended officials were accused of engaging in acts capable of causing disaffection among members, creating parallel party organs, and breaching several provisions of the ADC Constitution (2022 as amended).

The ADC also disclosed that it received a letter from the Kaduna State Police Command confirming an ongoing investigation into the alleged illegal removal of the Igabi Local Government Chairman, involving both suspended officials.

“The Chairman’s undemocratic disposition and selective relationship with State Working Committee members, coupled with his poor leadership style, contravene Articles 7(8 & 11) and 20(1b) of the ADC Constitution,” the statement said.

The party further accused Ambut and Oluwatuyi of running the Kaduna ADC like a “secret cult,” making unilateral decisions without due consultation or reference to the State Working Committee, and undermining the principles of transparency, accountability, and rule of law for personal gain.

To restore order and preserve the integrity of the party, the State Working Committee resolved to: suspend Elder Patrick Ambut and Mr. Victor Oluwatuyi pending the conclusion of investigations, and constitute a five-man Disciplinary Committee to probe the allegations and make recommendations.

The SWC, however, appointed Hon. Ahmed Tijjani Mustapha, the Deputy State Chairman, as Acting State Chairman, and Mrs. Rachael Didams as Acting State Secretary.

The statement added that the decision was necessary to uphold the ADC’s values and allow the disciplinary process to proceed without interference.

“The suspension is aimed at protecting the integrity of the party and ensuring due process in line with our constitution,” the statement concluded.

KANO’S PROGRESS SPEAKS LOUDER THAN PROPAGANDA

By Aminu Hussaini Sagagi

In Kano today, we are witnessing a familiar political drama. Whenever real progress is being made—whenever leaders roll up their sleeves to serve the people—there are always those who cannot stand to see it happen.

They resort to propaganda—loud, misleading, and divisive. Sadly, this has become the favoured tool of the opposition against the administration of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf (AKY).

Instead of offering constructive criticism, they prefer to manufacture noise. They twist facts, amplify half-truths, and spread stories designed to inflame emotions.

Their aim is simple: to turn public attention away from the positive transformation taking place in Kano under AKY’s leadership. They want citizens distracted, confused, and doubtful—because that is the only way they can remain relevant.

But let us be honest: who truly benefits from propaganda? Certainly not the ordinary Kano indigenes trying to put food on the table, send children to school, or get medical care when sick.

Propaganda benefits only a small circle of political actors desperate to capture power, even if it costs tearing down the State’s image in the process.

Look around Kano—despite the noise, an unprecedented number of projects are being executed.

Take Rahma, a final-year student in one of our public secondary schools; she used to sit in overcrowded classrooms with leaking roofs. But today, after rehabilitation works by AKY’s government, her school has standard furniture, a safer learning environment, and well-motivated teachers. For Rahma, progress is not a rumor—it is a reality.

Or consider Musa and Emmanuel, traders in Sabon Gari market who remember how bad roads used to make transporting their merchandise a nightmare. Now, with new roads and drainage projects opening up their areas, their businesses are thriving. That is the kind of development propaganda cannot hide.

And what about Khadija, a mother of three who once feared going to public hospitals because they lacked basic facilities? Today, she walks into a revitalized healthcare center where she can get treatment without begging for help. For her, the difference is life-saving.

Yet, the opposition would rather distract you to forget these stories. They push you into seeing shadows instead of substance, hearing noise instead of development. But the truth cannot be hidden; a rehabilitated school speaks louder than a false headline; a functioning hospital is weightier than a fabricated rumor.

Kano people must not allow themselves to be used as pawns in a propaganda war.

No matter how loud the opposition shouts, the good people of Kano must stand firm and say loudly and unanimously—nay to distractions!

We must rise above the distractions and judge by results, not by rhetoric.

Leadership is about service, and service is exactly what AKY is delivering in Kano.

History will not remember the propaganda; it will remember the projects, the reforms, and the opportunities created under this administration.

That is why, no matter how loud the opposition shouts, the good people of Kano must stand firm and say loudly and unanimously—nay to distractions!

Kano’s future is too important to be toyed with. The focus should remain on progress, and progress is exactly what Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf is bringing to the State.

This opinion piece is contributed by Barr. Aminu Hussaini Sagagi, the Special Adviser to the Governor of Kano State on Justice/Constitutional Matters.

Nigeria Seals Historic Deal With LONGi, World’s Largest Solar Firm, to Build 1,000MW Solar Factory

The Federal Government of Nigeria has concluded a strategic partnership through the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN) with the world’s largest solar panel production company, LONGi, in Xi’an, Shaanxi, China.

The Nigerian delegation, led by the Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi, was received by LONGi’s President, Boshen Zhong, and Vice President, Li Wenxue. The team was also taken on a tour of one of the world’s largest solar cell production facilities.

This visit follows the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between ECN and LONGi in London earlier this year.

During the visit, Dr. Abdullahi advanced discussions on the establishment of a 500–1000 MW solar panel production factory in Nigeria — a move set to significantly boost the nation’s renewable energy sector.

ECN’s presentation highlighted Africa’s growing market and the demand potential for solar mini-grids, emphasizing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Solarisation Policy, which seeks to accelerate access to clean energy across Nigeria.

LONGi expressed strong interest in investing in Nigeria and demonstrated readiness to advance concrete plans for the construction of the factory. This partnership marks a historic milestone for Nigeria’s renewable energy landscape and aligns with national efforts to expand local solar manufacturing capacity.

The ECN, under the leadership of Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi, is working assiduously to ensure that Nigerians enjoy improved electricity. The Commission aims to deliver on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Initiative on solarisation, which will create jobs, enhance energy security, and drive sustainable development across the country.

Mbah’s Move to APC a Strategic Gain for South East — Shehu Sani

Former lawmaker, Senator Shehu Sani, has described Governor Peter Mbah’s recent defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC) as a strategic and welcome development for the South East region, saying the move would strengthen the zone’s position in Nigeria’s mainstream political structure.

Reacting to public criticisms that trailed the Enugu State governor’s decision, Sani said Mbah’s defection should not be seen as an act of betrayal but rather as a bold step to rescue the South East from political isolation and irrelevance at the federal level.

Speaking with journalists shortly after attending the United Africa Development Initiative Summit held at Merit House, Abuja, Senator Sani stated: “Governor Mbah’s defection to the APC is a blessing to the South Eastern part of the country. It is a strategic decision that will factor the region into the mainstream political equation in Nigeria.”

The former senator argued that those accusing the governor of betrayal were being unfair, noting that members of the Labour Party (LP) and African Democratic Congress (ADC) had also defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the past.

“Why should LP and ADC members be angry with a PDP member who joined the APC when many of them also left the PDP earlier? Politics is about alignment and strategy, not sentiment,” he stated.

Sani further maintained that Mbah’s defection would open new political opportunities for the South East, saying it had “raised the chances of the region rather than diminished them.”

Describing the move metaphorically, he added: “Mbah’s defection is like taking the goods of the South East to a bigger market where the action is.”

He, therefore, urged political leaders and stakeholders in the region to rally around the governor and use his new platform to push for greater inclusion, development, and representation at the national level.

Ebonyi State Applauds Prof. Uduma’s Historic NOUN Leadership Appointment

The Governor of Ebonyi State, Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, has congratulated Prof. Uduma Orji Uduma on his appointment as the Vice-Chancellor of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) by the Governing Council of the institution.

In a letter signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Dr. Monday Uzor, the Governor described the appointment as a testament to Prof. Uduma’s outstanding academic pedigree, sterling leadership qualities, and immense contributions to philosophical scholarship and national development.

The Governor noted that Professor Uduma has over the years brought honour and pride to Ebonyi State and Nigeria through his scholarship, intellectual rigour, and mentorship of younger academics.

Governor Nwifuru expressed confidence that Prof. Uduma will bring his wealth of experience, vision, and integrity to bear in advancing the mandate of NOUN, fostering academic excellence and expanding access to quality education in the country.

Governor Nwifuru, on behalf of the Government and people of Ebonyi State, wished Prof. Uduma Orji Uduma a successful tenure and God’s continued wisdom, strength, and grace in the discharge of his duties, the letter stated.

Prof. Uduma, who hails from Nguzu in Edda Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, was recently appointed the Vice-Chancellor of NOUN by the Governing Council of the university, effective February 11th, 2026.

World Port Leaders Elect Nigeria’s Abubakar Dantsoho as IAPH Vice-President

At the ongoing World Ports Conference in Kobe, Japan, port professionals drawn from 64 countries have endorsed the election of the Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, as Vice-President of the International Association for Ports and Harbours (IAPH).

Coming on the heels of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s approval of the National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy, Dantsoho’s election as Vice-President of the IAPH stands as a testament to Nigeria’s growing influence in the comity of maritime nations.

The IAPH is a non-governmental organization (NGO) headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. In November 1955, about 100 world port leaders gathered in Los Angeles to announce the creation of the IAPH. Over the past six decades, the association has developed into a global alliance of ports, representing about 190 ports and 167 port-related businesses across 89 countries as of December 6, 2024.

Member ports of the IAPH collectively handle well over 60% of the world’s seaborne trade and over 60% of global container traffic. The organization aims to be the global trade association of choice for port authorities and operators, representing their interests at the regulatory level within bodies such as the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the World Customs Organization (WCO), the International Standards Organization (ISO), and other global alliances, including the Global Maritime Forum and the World Economic Forum.

Additionally, the IAPH holds consultative status and works on behalf of ports with several United Nations bodies such as the UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), and the UN Global Compact.

PUDF Warns Sowore, IPOB: Planned Nnamdi Kanu Protest Could Trigger Nationwide Violence

The Progressives Unity and Development Forum (PUDF) has issued a stern warning that the planned nationwide protest for the release of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, could degenerate into widespread chaos across the country.

The demonstration, scheduled for October 20, is reportedly being organized by IPOB members and human rights activist, Omoyele Sowore, to compel the Federal Government to release Kanu. Sowore has described the date for the “peaceful march” to Aso Rock Villa as “sacrosanct.”

However, the PUDF in a statement cautioned that the protest could be hijacked by hoodlums and political opportunists who might exploit the situation to unleash violence and attack government facilities.

The group recalled past incidents in Kano, Kaduna, and Lagos where peaceful demonstrations turned violent, leading to the destruction of public and private infrastructure.

“Sowore should be told now, before the D-day, that similar protests in the past spiraled out of control,” the PUDF stated.

According to the forum, the current political and economic atmosphere in the country remains tense, and any mass protest at this time could ignite nationwide unrest.

The PUDF therefore called on Sowore, IPOB, and other groups behind the planned protest to reconsider their position and embrace more constructive and civic means of engagement with the government.

The group further urged security agencies to remain alert and ensure that no individual or group uses the protest as a pretext to destabilize the country.

While acknowledging the citizens’ right to peaceful protest, PUDF warned Nigerians not to allow themselves to be manipulated by elements who might seek to use the agitation for personal or political gain.

It also appealed to community leaders, religious organizations, and youth groups to discourage participation in any movement that could endanger lives and property.

“The unity and peace of Nigeria should come first before any individual or political interest,” the PUDF concluded.

Middle Belt Forum Commends Appointment of Prof. Joash Amupitan as INEC Chairman

By Grace One

The Middle Belt Forum (MBF) has lauded the appointment of Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN) as the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), describing it as a well-deserved recognition of competence, integrity, and merit.

In a statement issued on Monday, October 13, 2025, and signed by its spokesman, Luka Binniyat, the Forum also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what it called a “well-considered choice,” noting that Professor Amupitan’s nomination and endorsement by the Council of State marked a positive step toward restoring credibility in Nigeria’s electoral process.

According to the MBF, Professor Amupitan, a distinguished son of the Middle Belt from Kogi State, is eminently qualified for the position, having built an illustrious career as a scholar, legal luminary, and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN).

The Forum highlighted that Professor Amupitan had served with excellence in academia, particularly as a Professor of Law at the University of Jos, where he mentored many of Nigeria’s current generation of lawyers. It emphasized his deep understanding of constitutional law, governance, and electoral jurisprudence, qualities it said uniquely prepared him to handle the enormous responsibilities that come with heading the nation’s electoral body.

“The Middle Belt Forum warmly congratulates Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN) on his nomination as the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and his subsequent endorsement by the Council of State. We equally extend our profound appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for this well-considered choice,” the statement read in part.

The Forum further expressed optimism that under Amupitan’s leadership, INEC would regain public trust and restore integrity to the nation’s electoral system, which it said had been seriously eroded under the previous administration of the commission.

“It is the considered opinion of the MBF that the immediate past leadership of INEC left behind a legacy marred by serious electoral irregularities and widespread loss of public trust. Professor Amupitan’s appointment, therefore, presents an opportunity to rebuild the integrity of Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission and ensure that elections truly reflect the will of the people,” the statement continued.

The MBF underscored the enormity of the task ahead, noting that the new INEC boss would now preside over Nigeria’s “democratic recruitment process,” overseeing elections at all levels — from the Presidency and Governorships to the National and State Assemblies.

“Professor Amupitan now assumes a role that is no less critical: he would now be the head handler of Nigeria’s democratic recruitment process, overseeing elections from the Presidency to Governorships, and from the National Assembly to State Legislatures,” the Forum said.

Expressing full confidence in the new appointee, the MBF said it was convinced that, true to the Middle Belt’s long-standing values, Professor Amupitan would discharge his duties with honesty, fairness, professionalism, and the fear of God.

“We are confident that, in keeping with the Middle Belt’s tradition, he will discharge his duties with honesty, fairness, professionalism, and the fear of God,” the group added.

The Forum also called on the Nigerian Senate to expedite the screening and confirmation process to enable Professor Amupitan to immediately begin the critical task of deepening electoral integrity and strengthening democratic governance.

“We trust that the Nigerian Senate will, in its wisdom, screen, clear, and confirm this outstanding patriot to enable him to commence his vital task of deepening electoral integrity and democratic governance,” the MBF said.

In conclusion, the Middle Belt Forum reiterated its gratitude to President Tinubu for recognizing merit and competence in his selection, describing the appointment as one that resonates with the nation’s desire for credible leadership at the electoral commission.

“Once again, the Middle Belt Forum heartily congratulates Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN) and expresses sincere gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for recognizing merit, character, and competence in this appointment,” the statement concluded.