President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially accepted the departure of Professor Mahmood Yakubu as Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), marking the end of his constitutionally permitted two-term tenure.

Yakubu, who was appointed in November 2015 and reappointed in 2020, served a total of ten years as the 14th INEC Chairman. His second term formally ended this October.

In a statement released on Tuesday by Bayo Onanuga, the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, President Tinubu expressed his gratitude to Yakubu for what he described as years of committed service to the country.

The President commended his role in advancing Nigeria’s democratic process, particularly through the conduct of credible elections during his tenure.

Professor Yakubu made significant contributions to the strengthening of our electoral system. His leadership at the Commission was instrumental in ensuring the integrity of elections,” the statement read.

As a mark of national appreciation, President Tinubu conferred on Yakubu the Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON)—a prestigious national honour.

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In line with succession protocol, the President also directed Professor Yakubu to hand over the leadership of INEC to the most senior National Commissioner, May Agbamuche-Mbu, who will serve in an acting capacity pending the appointment of a substantive chairman.

In a letter dated October 3, 2025, Yakubu expressed his appreciation to President Tinubu for the opportunity to serve the nation, describing the past decade as a period of responsibility, growth, and dedication to democratic values.

The transition comes amid anticipation of new leadership at INEC ahead of the 2027 general elections.