By Daniel Oluwatobiloba Popoola
The Independent National Electoral Commission has approved the promotion of 2,339 personnel in its 2025 Senior Staff Promotion Exercise, including the elevation of 82 officers to the rank of directors, in a move aimed at strengthening institutional capacity and rewarding merit.
The decision was taken at the commission’s meeting held on Thursday, 26 February, 2026, and was disclosed in a statement issued on Tuesday, 3 March, 2026 in Abuja by Mrs Victoria Eta-Messi.
According to the commission, the exercise underscores its commitment to career progression, organisational stability and leadership continuity, particularly as preparations intensify for forthcoming electoral engagements.
A breakdown of the exercise shows that 82 Chief Officers on Grade Levels 14–15 were promoted to Assistant Directors.
Similarly, 91 Assistant Directors on GL 15–16 advanced to the rank of Deputy Directors.
At the directorate level, covering Grade Levels 16–17, 45 Deputy Directors were elevated to the rank of Directors. Of this number, 18 will remain in active service, while 27 are due for retirement shortly after their promotion, in line with public service regulations.
In addition, the promotion exercise affected 2,121 intermediate officers on Grade Levels 07–13 across various departments of the commission.
“In all, the promotions cut across multiple cadres and were conducted in accordance with established guidelines and extant public service rules,” the statement read.
The commission stated that the exercise reflects its resolve to reward merit, dedication and years of service, while sustaining leadership depth across its structures.
It added that the promotions are part of efforts to reinforce professionalism and ensure seamless institutional operations.
Furthermore, the commission congratulated the newly promoted officers and urged them to redouble their commitment to professionalism, integrity and impartial service in the discharge of their responsibilities.
