AWC Statehouse Desk
ABUJA, Nigeria — In a brief but significant ceremony at the State House on Thursday, April 30, 2026, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu officially swore in a new National Commissioner for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and four Permanent Secretaries for the Federal Civil Service.
The event, held just before the week’s Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting, was followed by a press briefing led by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris Malagi.
Key Appointments and Swearing-In
The President administered the oath of office to the following officials:
- INEC National Commissioner: Retired Rear Admiral Jamila Malafa (Adamawa State), filling a critical vacancy within the electoral body.
- Permanent Secretaries:
- Mrs. Augusta Warrens (Bayelsa State)
- Dr. Ayinde Shoretire (Ogun State)
- Malam Aminu Yargaya (Kano State)
- Mrs. Nkiruka Jones-Nebo (Enugu State)
High-Level Presence
The briefing was notable for the attendance of Prof. Taiwo Oyedele, who recently transitioned from his role as the tax reform chief to become the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy. His presence underscored the administration’s focus on integrating administrative efficiency with fiscal stability.
Other top government officials in attendance included:
- Vice President Kashim Shettima
- Senator George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF)
- Nuhu Ribadu, National Security Adviser (NSA)
- Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, Head of the Civil Service of the Federation
Ministerial Statement
Addressing State House correspondents, Minister Mohammed Idris Malagi emphasized that these appointments are part of the President’s “Renewed Hope” agenda, aimed at strengthening the nation’s democratic institutions and the efficiency of the civil service.
”The swearing-in of these seasoned professionals reflects the President’s commitment to competence and regional balance,” Idris stated. “With the new INEC Commissioner and Permanent Secretaries on board, we are bolstering the machinery of governance to deliver more effectively for all Nigerians.”
The new appointees are expected to assume their duties immediately, with the Permanent Secretaries being deployed to their respective ministries to drive the implementation of federal policies.
