INEC’s New Era Begins: Prof. Yakubu Bows Out After 10 Years, Hands Over to Agbamuche-Mbu as Acting Chairman
After a decade of transformative leadership, Professor Mahmood Yakubu has officially concluded his historic tenure as Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), handing over to Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu, who will now serve as Acting Chairman.
The transition, described as “orderly and constitutionally guided,” took place on Wednesday during INEC’s third regular Quarterly Consultative Meeting with Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) in Abuja.
Prof. Yakubu, who first assumed office in 2015 following Prof. Attahiru Jega, confirmed that he had commenced his pre-retirement leave in compliance with Section 306 (1) and (2) of the Nigerian Constitution.
“Having been privileged to serve the Commission for 10 years, I have commenced my pre-retirement leave to ensure a smooth transition and give the appointing authorities sufficient time to name a new substantive Chairman,” Yakubu said.
Following consultations with the National Commissioners, Barr. Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu, a seasoned legal practitioner and long-serving National Commissioner, was selected to lead the Commission in an acting capacity.
Prof. Yakubu expressed confidence in her leadership, describing her as capable of “quickly settling into the task of overseeing elections in one of the world’s most complex democratic environments.”
A Legacy of Digital Transformation
Yakubu’s tenure, spanning from 2015 to 2025, will be remembered for modernizing Nigeria’s electoral process. Under his leadership, INEC consolidated a biometric voter register, introduced digital innovations in voter accreditation, candidate nominations, results management, and observer accreditation, and enhanced transparency in election logistics.
To chronicle this decade of reform, Yakubu unveiled two publications —
“Election Management in Nigeria 2015–2025” and
“Innovations in Electoral Technology 2015–2025” —
both now available on the INEC website for public access.
Roadmap for the Future
Before bowing out, Prof. Yakubu outlined key priorities for the Commission:
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Ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR), with 6.8 million Nigerians having initiated online pre-registration and 1.2 million completing physical registration.
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Review of polling unit locations nationwide.
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Preparations for upcoming off-cycle elections in Anambra, Ekiti, Osun, and the Federal Capital Territory.
Agbamuche-Mbu: Stepping Into History
In her acceptance speech, Mrs. Agbamuche-Mbu expressed deep gratitude and pledged to sustain the integrity and momentum of the Commission.
“We will maintain the standards you have set and continue from where you stopped. INEC will remain professional, united, and committed to credible elections,” she assured.
Her appointment marks a defining moment for Nigeria’s electoral management body — one that blends continuity with new leadership energy.
An Emotional Farewell
The atmosphere at INEC headquarters was filled with emotion as staff and commissioners paid tribute to Prof. Yakubu.
INEC Secretary Mrs. Rose Oriaran-Anthony was visibly moved, struggling to hold back tears as she thanked him:
“I stand before you today filled with emotion. Thank you, Chairman, for all you have done.”
INEC’s New Era Begins: Prof. Yakubu Bows Out After 10 Years, Hands Over to Agbamuche-Mbu as Acting Chairman
Other officials echoed similar sentiments. Prof. Sam Egwu, a Resident Electoral Commissioner, described Yakubu as “one of the most brilliant Nigerians of our time — a man who understands the country’s electoral pulse better than anyone.”
A Chapter Closes, A Legacy Endures
As the formal handover documents were signed and the farewell photograph taken, it marked the end of an era — one defined by innovation, resilience, and reform.
Prof. Yakubu, reflecting on his journey, expressed his appreciation to INEC staff, security agencies, NYSC members, development partners, and Nigerians at large:
“Your criticisms encouraged us to persevere and your support inspired us to improve.”
With Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu now at the helm, INEC enters a new phase — one that promises stability, continuity, and the continued strengthening of Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
INEC’s New Era Begins: Prof. Yakubu Bows Out After 10 Years, Hands Over to Agbamuche-Mbu as Acting Chairman
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