The University of Jos community on Tuesday held a special valedictory session in honour of Professor Audu Amupitan, SAN, celebrating his decades of distinguished service as he formally exits the institution following his appointment as Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Speaking during the farewell event held at the Senate Chamber, Vice-Chancellor Professor Tanko Ishaya described Prof. Amupitan as “a beacon of integrity, discipline, and academic excellence whose contributions have left an indelible mark on the university.”
According to him, Amupitan’s elevation to lead INEC is “a national call founded on trust, competence and his proven record of fairness,” adding that the university is proud to release him to serve the country at a higher level.
Several colleagues, students, and staff also paid glowing tributes to the outgoing professor of law, praising his mentorship, administrative acumen, and commitment to institutional growth. They recounted his notable achievements, including strengthening the Faculty of Law, promoting research-led reforms, and championing ethical leadership within the academic community.
In his response, Prof. Amupitan expressed gratitude to the University of Jos for shaping his career and values. He pledged to uphold the principles of transparency and accountability in his new national assignment.
“I am leaving UNIJOS with humility and a deep sense of responsibility. The confidence reposed in me by Mr. President and by Nigerians is not something I take lightly,” he said. “I will do my best to justify this trust and contribute to strengthening our electoral system.”
Prof. Amupitan’s appointment has been widely welcomed across academic, legal and civic circles, with many describing it as a positive step toward enhancing credibility in Nigeria’s electoral process.
The ceremony ended with a symbolic handover and presentation of recognition plaques, marking the close of an era for the esteemed scholar and the beginning of a pivotal chapter in national service.
