Ahead of the twenty-twenty-three General Elections, the Independent National Electoral Commission, has solicited the support of the Nigerian Air Force, NAF for the airlift of electoral materials and personnel in preparation for the upcoming elections.
Its Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu made the request when he paid a courtesy visit to the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Oladayo Amao at the Headquarters of NAF Abuja.
Yakubu also sought NAF assistance in handling the delivery of outstanding election materials for the Governorship Elections which will be held in Ekiti and Osun States in June and July.
According to him, his visit wad aimed at exploring ways of ensuring effective collaborative efforts with other stakeholders to address issues related to aspects of poor electoral logistics management, in which the NAF has a critical role to play.
In his words, this will be extended to other Armed Services in determination to efficiently deliver materials and more efficiently serve Nigerians on Election Days.
He noted that the law empowers the Commission to seek the support of the security agencies, especially the Armed Forces, in delivering materials for the election and the protection of election officials.
While commending the NAF for its neutrality and professionalism, the Chairman stated that the collaboration with the NAF has been of tremendous benefit to the electoral process and the consolidation of democracy in Nigeria.
Responding, Air Marshal Oladayo Amao assured the INEC Chairman of the readiness of the NAF to provide transport aircraft to enable prompt movement of electoral materials during the general elections.
He commended INEC for stabilising the electoral process in Nigeria. “As the electioneering season gradually picks up, we are aware of the need to coordinate the movement of INEC logistics such as election materials and staff to remote areas in preparation for the forthcoming general election in February 2023.
He believes further liaison is necessary to enable them to incorporate INEC activities in our operational plans.
Air Marshal Amao also stated that the NAF would continue to render all necessary assistance and support to make INEC more efficient in the discharge of its constitutional responsibilities.
He directed that a committee comprising INEC and NAF personnel be constituted to coordinate the airlift of electoral materials and other logistics movements for an itch-free electioneering exercise.