The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has reaffirmed its commitment to the welfare of staff with the inauguration of the Joint Consultative Committee (JCC) in Abuja on Thursday, 4th September 2025.
Chairman of the Commission, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, said the initiative was designed to boost productivity and strengthen staff engagement. He assured that the Commission would continue to work closely with the JCC to improve welfare and enhance the electoral process.
“We have as much as possible, within the limits available, promoted staff welfare. The most important aspect of staff welfare for me is the payment of monthly salaries. No matter how small, it must be regular. Whatever the case, we must prioritize staff welfare. There is no month we have gone beyond the 20th without the payment of salaries,” he said.
Prof. Yakubu explained that the JCC was not an alternative to trade unions but a platform for dialogue between staff and management on welfare issues. He urged the new executives to reflect positively on the image of the Commission in the discharge of their responsibilities.
INEC Secretary, Mrs. Rose Oriaran-Anthony, described the inauguration of the JCC as a significant milestone in the Commission’s history. She said the forum would provide a structured avenue for staff to engage with management, address concerns, and contribute to the overall achievement of the Commission.
“I am delighted today because we are witnessing what has never been before. The inauguration of the INEC JCC marks a milestone in promoting staff welfare, enhancing productivity, and fostering a positive work environment. The staff also proved during the JCC elections that it is possible to conduct a process that is free, fair, and acceptable, and even accept the outcome with sportsmanship,” she said.
At the event, Certificates of Return were presented to the elected executives, while runners-up received Certificates of Participation. The Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammad Maigari Dingyadi, represented by Prince Donald Kehinde Fakunle, commended the Commission for conducting a transparent election and urged the new leadership to use the platform to amplify staff concerns constructively.
Speaking on behalf of the new executives, the JCC President, Mrs. Vera O. Awoh, described the inauguration as a historic moment for INEC. She pledged to work with management to promote a harmonious work environment and to support staff in performing their duties professionally and optimally.
Other elected officials include:
· Vice President: Mr. Mohammed Umar Garba
· General Secretary: Mrs. Rafatu Ibrahim
· Assistant Secretary: Mr. Adamu Abimelech
· Treasurer: Mr. Shagari Gayus Musa
· Legal Adviser: Mr. Bashir M. Abubakar
· Chief Whip: Mr. Abdulkareem Adams
· Public Relations Officer: Mrs. Julie O.
Editor in Chief: Mrs. Victoria Eta-Messi
Editor: Wilfred Ifogah
Sub-Editor: Esther Chibuikem
Reporters: Patience George, Jeremiah Bello, and Nathaniel Audu Gana