TEI Honours Former DG, Dr. Sa’ad Umar Idris, and Retired Directors
Oru Leonard
Abuja, July 2, 2025: The Electoral Institute (TEI), the research and training arm of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), on Wednesday hosted a grand send forth ceremony in honour of its immediate past Director-General, Dr. Sa’ad Umar Idris, and four retired directors, in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the growth and development of the Institute.
The event, which held at the main auditorium of the Institute, brought together an array of dignitaries from within and outside the Commission. Among those honoured were Mr. John Irem, Mr. Sylvanus Yepe, Mr. Tunde Ojedokun, and Mr. Ifeanyi Agoha—former directors of the Institute who served with distinction.
In his remarks, the INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, praised Dr. Idris for his visionary leadership and the transformation of TEI into a globally recognized electoral training institute. “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.
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 to the celebrants, Prof. Yakubu expressed confidence in Dr. Idris’ capacity to succeed as REC. Also 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.
In his opening remarks, 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, who now serves as the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), for Gombe State, received a standing ovation as his citation was read. He was joined on stage by Mr. Ifeanyi Agoha, also honoured amidst cheers and applause.
In a heartfelt message, INEC Secretary Mrs. Rosemary Oriaran described the event as an emotional farewell to colleagues who had become close allies. She recalled Dr. Idris’s rise through the ranks from Director of Training to DG TEI, and eventually to REC, noting her belief in his success from the onset. She also described the other retired directors as “quiet achievers” who left behind a legacy of excellence.
Tributes flowed from staff members, including a message from Malam Mallum Haruna on behalf of State Training Officers (STOs) from the 36 states and the FCT, commending Dr. Idris’s professionalism and commitment.
The occasion was laced with moments of light-hearted humour as TEI staff playfully mimicked Dr. Idris in various scenarios, drawing laughter from guests and celebrants alike. A farewell cake was unveiled and jointly cut by the celebrants, Prof. Zuru, the INEC Secretary, Acting DG TEI, and other senior officials.
Dr. Idris was presented with a plaque and a gift package by Prof. Zuru, while Mr. Agoha also received a commemorative plaque and tokens of appreciation. Gifts for the other retired directors who were unavoidably absent were presented to their representatives.
In his closing remarks, Dr. Idris expressed deep gratitude to the INEC Chairman, the BEI, colleagues, friends, and staff of the Institute. “It has been a privilege to serve, and I am honoured by the love and recognition shown to me today,” he said.
The event concluded with the presentation of plaques, group photographs, and a vibrant performance by a traditional music group. Many attendees lingered afterward to enjoy soft music, dance, and camaraderie—a fitting end to a day of appreciation and celebration.
(INEC Media)
