From Atiku Sarki, Abuja
The Federal Government has congratulated the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof. Joash Amupitan (SAN), on his conferment with the Great Ambassador of the University of Jos award.
In a statement issued to Triumph in Abuja by the Chief Press Secretary/Media Adviser to the INEC Chairman, Mr Adedayo Oketola, the government said the recognition reflected Amupitan’s contributions to academia, the legal profession and national service.
The congratulatory message was contained in a letter personally signed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume (CON), and dated December 15, 2025.
Amupitan received the award during the University of Jos 50th Alumni Anniversary and the combined 35th and 36th Convocation ceremonies held on December 12, 2025, at the institution’s main campus in Jos.
According to Akume, the honour was more than an alumni recognition, describing it as an acknowledgment of the INEC chairman’s impact on the country.
“This prestigious honour is a fitting tribute to your exemplary leadership, sterling public service and enduring commitment to democratic governance, national development and institutional integrity,” the letter read.
The Federal Government also noted that Amupitan’s leadership at INEC had focused on strengthening the electoral system.
“Your contributions to the strengthening of Nigeria’s electoral process, coupled with your values of professionalism, accountability and patriotism, have continued to inspire confidence and earn respect both nationally and internationally,” Akume added.
Amupitan, an alumnus of the University of Jos, obtained his LL.B in 1987 and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1988. He later earned his LL.M in 1993 and a PhD in Law in 2007 from the same institution, where he was promoted to Professor of Law in 2008.
Commenting on the recognition, Akume said the award affirmed the positive impact of the university’s graduates on the nation.
“The University of Jos has celebrated an illustrious alumnus who has remained a worthy ambassador of its ideals of excellence, service and responsible citizenship,” he said.
Amupitan was elevated to the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria in 2014 and has over 50 academic publications spanning electoral jurisprudence, corporate governance and evidence law.
Before his appointment as INEC chairman, he served as Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration) of the University of Jos, Dean of the Faculty of Law and Pro-Chancellor of Joseph Ayo Babalola University.
The Federal Government expressed confidence that the recognition would further motivate him in the discharge of his duties.
The Great Ambassador award is one of the highest honours conferred by the University of Jos on alumni who have distinguished themselves professionally and upheld high ethical standards.
