The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has charged its staff to embrace a systematic approach to planning, implementing, and evaluating its activities.
The Osun INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner, Dr Mutiu Agboke gave this charge during the technical workshop on the review of the 2022-2026 strategic plan and the development of the 2027-2031 strategic plan implementation programme at the INEC state office, Osogbo on Tuesday.
He also urged staff to reflect on past achievements, identify the gaps, and refine their strategies to ensure the attainment of the goals set out in the 2022—2026 strategic plan.
Dr Agboke said the strategies outlined in the plan had undoubtedly contributed to the successes recorded in recent elections, including the landmark 2022 Osun State governorship election.
This charge is coming as INEC steps up preparation for the 2027 general elections in Nigeria.
Addressing the staff, the Osun INEC boss said, “The 2022-2026 Strategic Plan has provided a robust framework for our electoral operations, resource management, and stakeholder engagements. However, as we approach the end-point of its implementation, it is imperative that we reflect on our achievements, identify the gaps, and refine our strategies to ensure the attainment of the goals set out in the plan.”
While acknowledging the pivotal role that strategic planning plays in achieving INEC’s mission of conducting free, fair, credible, and inclusive elections, he said over the years, the Commission has embraced a systematic approach to planning, implementing, and evaluating its activities.
“The review process ensures the attainment of Insights and lessons that will inform the development of the 2027-2031 Strategic Plan, which will be a roadmap for the next phase of electoral management in Nigeria.
“The deliberations and recommendations that will emerge from this workshop will serve as a critical input in shaping the Commission’s strategic direction for the coming years. I urge all participants to engage rigorously and collaboratively, because the outcomes of this exercise will impact the credibility and integrity of our electoral process.”
He assured that the Commission under Mahmood Yakubu remained committed to continuous improvement and innovation in electoral administration.
In her address, the Osun INEC Administrative Secretary, Segun-Osifeso Margaret Olufunmike said the workshop serves as a compass, guiding INEC through the complexities of electoral administration and ensuring the Commission’s activities aligned with its mission and vision.
In her words, “strategic planning is not only fundamental to achieving the Commission’s mandate but also pivotal to sustaining the credibility and trust that have been painstakingly built with stakeholders over the years. The workshop is part of periodic reviews which were essential to evaluate progress and address challenges and reposition for the future.
“This workshop offers us the opportunity to reflect on our journey so far, assessing what has worked, what can be improved, and how we can enhance our operations to deliver better outcomes. It also allows us to begin shaping the framework for the 2027-2031 Strategic Plan—an essential roadmap that will ensure we remain proactive in adapting to the dynamic landscape of electoral management.
“The development and implementation of any strategic plan require collaboration, dedication, and innovative thinking. That is why the role of each participant in this workshop is critical. Your expertise, experience, and insights will be instrumental in ensuring that the recommendations from this exercise are practical, impactful, and reflective of the realities on the ground. I urge all of us to approach this task with a shared commitment to excellence and accountability.”
She charged the workshop participants to ensure that INEC remains a symbol of integrity and trust in the democratic process.
INEC charges Osun staff to systematically evaluate electoral activities