By Oluwabukunmi
September 25, 2025 – The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has approved the promotion of 471 junior staff members following its weekly meeting on Thursday in Abuja.
A statement signed by the National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun, said the promotions were recommended by the Appointment, Promotion and Disciplinary Committee and carried out in accordance with the Commission’s Staff Conditions of Service.
According to Olumekun, 515 staff were shortlisted, out of which 214 advanced to Grade Level 07, 134 to GL06, 106 to GL05, and 17 to GL04.
“The promotion of junior staff concludes the first phase of the exercise. Next is the promotion of senior staff, which has also commenced in earnest,” Olumekun stated.
The Commission stressed that staff promotions remain a routine but essential process, reaffirming its commitment to merit-based progression and staff welfare.
INEC also urged its workforce to remain dedicated, especially with key elections approaching.
“We urge all staff to rededicate themselves to service, particularly with regard to elections and electoral activities,” Olumekun added.
The Thursday meeting, chaired by INEC Chairman Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, also reviewed preparations for upcoming elections in Anambra, the Federal Capital Territory, Ekiti, and Osun States.
The announcement came amid speculation that President Bola Tinubu had asked Yakubu to proceed on pre-retirement leave. Yakubu, who was first appointed in 2015 and reappointed in 2020, is expected to complete his second five-year term in November 2025.
Under the 1999 Constitution, the appointment of a new INEC Chairman requires the President to consult the National Council of State before forwarding a nominee to the Senate for confirmation.
