A new chapter has begun at Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as the outgoing Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, on Tuesday, officially handed over leadership to the most senior National Commissioner, Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu, at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja.

The quiet but symbolic ceremony which marked the end of Yakubu’s eventful tenure, during which he oversaw two general elections, in 2019 and 2023, and several off-cycle polls that helped shape Nigeria’s democratic process had been intended to be a meeting with Resident Electoral Commissioners to discuss the Anambra Governorship Election scheduled for Saturday eight November, 2025.

The agenda changed when Prof. Yakubu in his brief remarks, expressed gratitude to Nigerians, the Commission’s staff, and development partners for their support throughout his years of service.

He urged the new leadership to remain committed to INEC’s vision of transparency, technological innovation, and electoral credibility.

Taking over the reins, Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu, a legal practitioner and long-serving National Commissioner, pledged to sustain the Commission’s existing reforms and uphold its integrity.

She said the Commission will continue to consolidate on the legacies of transparency, professionalism, and innovation that the Commission is known for and assured Nigerians that INEC remains committed to credible, inclusive, and peaceful elections.

Other staff of the Commission, including its secretary, Mrs Rose Oriaran-Anthony, expressed gratitude to the former INEC Chairman for making the electoral body the envy of other African countries.

The transition comes at a crucial time as INEC prepares for several off-cycle governorship elections and the continuous voter registration exercise ahead of the 2027 general elections.