BY. Mercy Peter
The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, has emphasized the critical role of logistics and security in the successful conduct of elections as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections.
Amupitan made this known in Abuja while receiving the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday kelvin Aneke and his delegation during a courtesy visit to the Commission’s headquarters.
The INEC chairman described the visit as a strong demonstration of confidence in the Commission and a reaffirmation of the long-standing partnership between the electoral body and the Nigerian Air Force.
He expressed appreciation for the Air Force’s consistent support, particularly in the areas of logistics and security, which he said have been vital to the smooth conduct of elections across the country.
According to him, the collaboration between the two institutions has contributed significantly to safeguarding Nigeria’s democracy by ensuring that electoral materials and personnel reach difficult and remote locations on time.
Amupitan noted that the Commission has already released the timetable for the 2027 general elections following the enactment of the Electoral Act 2026.
He explained that under the revised timetable, presidential and National Assembly elections will hold on January 16, 2027, while governorship and state assembly elections are scheduled for February 16, 2027.
The INEC chairman said preparations were already underway, adding that the Commission would share detailed operational plans with the Air Force to ensure effective coordination.
Amupitan also commended the Air Force for its timely support during recent electoral activities, including the Anambra State governorship election in November 2025, the Federal Capital Territory elections, and several by-elections in parts of the country.
He noted that elections can only be as successful as the logistics behind them, stressing that efficient deployment of materials and personnel remains a critical factor in ensuring credible polls.
“As we look forward to these dates, we recognize the challenges ahead, but we are confident that with your continued partnership and support, we can ensure a secure and orderly environment for citizens to exercise their democratic rights.
“An election can only be as good as its logistics. If we are able to deploy materials and personnel on time across the country, that would go a long way in guaranteeing the credibility of the process,” he stated.
The INEC chairman also revealed that the Commission would soon conduct important off-cycle governorship elections later in the year, beginning with the Ekiti State governorship election in June, followed by the Osun State governorship election scheduled for August 15.
He described the elections as crucial rehearsal exercises ahead of the 2027 polls and called for deeper collaboration with security agencies, particularly the Air Force.
In his remarks, the Chief of the Air Staff Sunday Kelvin Aneke reaffirmed the Nigerian Air Force’s readiness to support INEC in delivering free, fair, and credible elections.
He said the Air Force considers its partnership with the electoral body a vital contribution to national stability and democratic governance.
According to him, the Air Force will continue to provide rapid airlift for sensitive and non-sensitive electoral materials, especially to hard-to-reach areas, while also supporting election security operations.
He disclosed that the service was already working to ensure its aircraft fleet is fully operational ahead of the election period, with some undergoing maintenance to boost airlift capacity.
“We remain willing, able and ready to continue providing support whenever required. Once there is a landing space, the Air Force can move your materials and personnel,” he said.
The Air Chief also highlighted the growing role of modern technology in election security, noting that the Air Force has developed capabilities in intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance using drones and other aerial assets.
He explained that such systems could help monitor areas of interest, detect potential threats early and support coordinated responses by security agencies during elections.
He further called for joint preparatory exercises and simulation drills between the Air Force and INEC to test operational plans before the actual elections.
According to him, rehearsals and simulations are essential in identifying potential weaknesses and improving coordination among institutions involved in the electoral process.
The Air Chief expressed confidence that stronger collaboration between the Air Force, INEC and other security agencies would enhance the credibility and success of future elections in Nigeria.
