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 the country prepares for the 2027 general election.

Amupitan, receiving the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, and his delegation, on a courtesy visit to the Commission’s headquarters, Abuja, 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 stated 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 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 considered 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.

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 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.