By Joy Odor
The Electoral Institute (TEI) recently hosted a grand sendforth ceremony to honor its immediate past Director-General, Dr. Sa’ad Umar Idris, and four retired directors for their outstanding contributions to the growth and development of the Institute.
The event brought together dignitaries from within and outside the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, praised Dr. Idris for his visionary leadership and transformation of TEI into a globally recognized electoral training institute.
Represented by the Chairman of the Board of The Electoral Institute (BEI), Prof. Abdullahi Abdu Zuru, who led other National Commissioners and senior officials in paying glowing tributes informed that the four retired directors honored alongside Dr. Idris were Mr. John Irem, Mr. Sylvanus Yepe, Mr. Tunde Ojedokun, and Mr. Ifeanyi Agoha.
“Your groundwork has positioned the TEI to become a hub for electoral capacity building, both within and beyond Nigeria,” he said, urging Dr. Idris to continue serving as an ambassador of the Institute in his new role.
INEC Secretary Mrs. Rosemary Oriaran described the event as an emotional farewell to colleagues who had become close allies.
Earlier in his welcome address, Acting Director-General of TEI, Prof. Ibrahim Sani, welcomed the guests warmly, describing the event as one of celebration rather than long speeches.
He lauded Dr. Idris and the retired directors for their “laudable service” and unwavering dedication, noting that the ceremony marked the fulfillment of a long-held desire by staff to publicly appreciate their former leaders.
Dr. Idris was presented with a plaque and a gift package by Prof. Abdullahi Abdu Zuru, Chairman of the Board of TEI.
He expressed deep gratitude to the INEC Chairman, the Board, colleagues, friends, and staff of the Institute for their love and recognition.
In attendance were Hon. National Commissioners Malam Mohammed Kudu Haruna, Malam A. T. Yusuf, Prof. Mohammed Sani Adams (SAN), Mr. Sam Olumekun (mni), Prof. Rhoda Gumus, Prof. Sunday Aja, Barr. May Agbamuche Mbu, and Dr. Kenneth Nnamdi Ukeagu.
Resident Electoral Commissioners from Nasarawa, Sokoto, and the FCT — Mr. Shehu Wahab, Alhaji Yusuf Garba, and Alhaji Aminu Idris—were also present, alongside INEC Secretary, Mrs. Rosemary Anthony Oriaran; external Board Member Dr. Kole Shettima; and Dr. Muhammad I. Ngoshe, former Assistant Director General of the DSS and a long-time friend of Dr. Idris.
