On Tuesday, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu launched the construction of INEC’s new headquarters in Abuja, urging Nigerians to back efforts that strengthen key institutions, defend democracy, and safeguard the nation’s future.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony, President Tinubu emphasized that democracy is a continuous journey requiring collective effort and vigilance. “Democracy is not a destination but a journey. Let us, together, reinforce our institutions, safeguard our freedom, and protect our future,” he said.

The President described the new INEC headquarters as more than just a building project. He said it symbolizes Nigeria’s commitment to credible elections and institutional independence. “This is about the strength of our democracy, the independence of our institutions, and the future of our electoral integrity,” Tinubu noted.

He commended INEC’s pivotal role in sustaining democratic values, calling it “the backbone of Nigeria’s democratic process.” According to him, housing such a key institution in a modern facility underscores the importance of its mandate and helps build public trust in the electoral system.

The new annex will serve as a hub for electoral planning, training, innovation, and transparency. Tinubu stressed the need to ensure that INEC is fully equipped — not just with infrastructure but also with the legal and policy frameworks necessary to execute its duties effectively.

Acknowledging Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister Nyesom Wike, for his role in initiating the project, the President said it reflects his administration’s resolve to strengthen democratic governance.

“To the contractors and stakeholders involved, I say: let quality, speed, and transparency define your work. You are building more than a structure — you are building national trust,” he declared.

Wike Assures Completion During Tinubu’s First Term

FCT Minister Wike clarified that the project was approved by the Federal Executive Council in March 2025 and is being supervised by the FCT through the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA).

He pledged that the project would be completed within President Tinubu’s first term. “Mr. President, we assure you that with the support you’ve given us, this project will be completed on time. The contractor will deliver — rain or shine.”

Wike also highlighted other infrastructure projects approved under the President’s directive, including renovations at the National Assembly, the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, and various court buildings across Abuja.

INEC Chairman: New Structure Long Overdue

INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, said the commission has long struggled with inadequate office space. The current headquarters, built in 1997, was designed for a much smaller staff and structure. “Today, we have over 1,000 staff, 13 full-time commissioners, and 22 departments — all overstretching our existing facilities,” he noted.

Due to these limitations, INEC was forced to rent additional office spaces in Wuse Zone II. The new building, designed with input from INEC’s technical team, will include modern offices, a 1,000-seat auditorium, IT facilities, and a museum to preserve the history of elections in Nigeria.

Yakubu thanked the President and FCT Administration for making the project a reality, noting that this is the third time since 1991 the FCDA has provided facilities for the Commission.