Mathew Amaechi
In a decisive move to strengthen Nigeria’s electoral and ethical oversight frameworks, President Bola Tinubu on Monday inaugurated two National Commissioners for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and two members of the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB), marking a critical step in his administration’s governance reforms.
The ceremony, held at the Council Chambers of Aso Rock Presidential Villa, saw Abdulrazak Tukur (North West) and Sunday Aja (Ebonyi State, South East) sworn in as INEC commissioners, while Ikpeme Ndem (Cross River) and Justice Buba Nyaure (Taraba) assumed roles on the CCB board. Their appointments followed November 2023 nominations and subsequent Senate confirmation.
The brief yet symbolic event preceded the 27th Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting, where key cabinet members convened to advance national priorities. Among attendees were Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume, Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, and ministers including Wale Edun (Finance) and Mohammed Idris (Information). Following the swearing-in, the council proceeded into a closed-door session, though details of deliberations remain undisclosed.
The INEC appointments come amid heightened public scrutiny of Nigeria’s electoral processes, with Tukur and Aja expected to bolster transparency ahead of future polls. Meanwhile, the CCB—tasked with enforcing ethical standards among public officials—gains fresh leadership as anti-corruption efforts remain a cornerstone of Tinubu’s agenda.
Monday’s FEC meeting also revisited the administration’s “Renewed Hope Nigeria-First Policy,” approved on May 5, which mandates prioritization of locally produced goods and services in government procurement. The policy aligns with broader economic strategies to stimulate domestic industries and reduce dependency on imports.
Analysts view the dual emphasis on institutional appointments and economic nationalism as reflective of Tinubu’s dual-track approach: reinforcing governance structures while driving grassroots economic revival. As the new INEC and CCB officials assume their roles, their effectiveness in upholding credibility and accountability will be pivotal to restoring public trust.