By Daily Review Online
The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof. Joash Amupitan, SAN, has announced plans to strengthen healthcare services and improve staff welfare through the renovation of existing clinic facilities and the acquisition of a larger healthcare centre for employees.
Amupitan disclosed this during the grand finale of the 2026 International Nurses Week celebration held at the INEC headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday.
Speaking at the event themed, “Our Nurses, Our Future: Empowered Nurses Save Lives,” the INEC chairman said the Commission had already commenced due process for the renovation of its Garki Clinic following reports on the poor state of the facility.
According to him, the decision reflects the Commission’s commitment to improving the welfare and healthcare support available to workers.
“Just a few days ago, I was told of the poor condition of our clinic, and I immediately directed the relevant department to evaluate it. A report has been submitted, and I have ordered the commencement of due process for the renovation of the Garki Clinic,” he said.
Amupitan also revealed that the Commission was pursuing plans to acquire a bigger healthcare facility in Area 10, Abuja, to provide more efficient medical services for staff members.
“When I made the proposal at the National Assembly, some people thought we were building a hospital. But it is part of our commitment to ensure that the little we have is functional and efficient,” he added.
The INEC chairman stressed that the nature of the Commission’s responsibilities exposes staff to significant risks, making healthcare and welfare support essential.
“People do not understand the role of INEC and the risks involved in our work. We are exposed to so much risk. If you want to have a productive workforce, you also have to think about their health,” he stated.
He commended nurses for their dedication and professionalism, describing them as the “bedrock” of healthcare delivery across society.
Amupitan further assured nurses serving within the Commission that INEC would continue to prioritise staff welfare despite existing challenges.
In her remarks, National Commissioner and Chairman of the Health and Welfare Committee, Prof. Rhoda Gumus, described nursing as “a valuable profession to humanity,” praising nurses for their role in healthcare delivery, disease prevention, and community wellbeing.
Other speakers at the event, including National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mallam Mohammed Kudu Haruna, and the Chairman of the Board of The Electoral Institute, Prof. Kunle Ajayi, also commended nurses for their service and contributions to the nation’s healthcare system.
The Registrar and Chief Executive Officer of the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria, Ndagi Alhassan, in his keynote address, said nurses and midwives remained the backbone of Nigeria’s healthcare system.
He highlighted reforms being undertaken by the Council, including curriculum development, accreditation, digital licensing reforms, continuing professional development, workforce regulation, and policy advocacy.
Highlights of the event included a tribute to Florence Nightingale, presentation of awards to senior INEC officials, and recognition of retired nurses of the Commission for their meritorious service.