President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed the former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu, as a non-career ambassador, marking a major development in Nigeria’s diplomatic and political space.
The appointment, announced on Thursday, adds Yakubu to the growing list of high-profile figures transitioning from national service into diplomatic roles under the Tinubu administration.
Professor Yakubu served as INEC Chairman from 2015 to 2025, overseeing two presidential election cycles and several off-cycle governorship polls. His tenure, often described as one of the most controversial and highly scrutinized in Nigeria’s election history, continues to spark public debate.
Despite mixed public perception, the Presidency says Yakubu’s “experience in governance, institutional leadership, and international engagement” played a key role in his selection.
While the specific country of posting has not yet been revealed, the appointment is expected to be submitted to the Senate for confirmation in the coming days.
Political analysts say the move may shape Nigeria’s foreign relations and could signal a new phase of diplomatic restructuring by the Tinubu administration.