The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, has pledged to share the Commission’s experience and provide relevant documents to support the Commission Electorale Nationale Autonomie of Benin Republic as they prepare for their elections in 2026.
Yakubu made the commitment while addressing a delegation from CENA, led by Dr. Sacca Lafia, President of the Autonomous National Electoral Commission of Benin Republic, during their visit to INEC headquarters in Abuja on Monday.
The CENA delegation, which includes National Commissioners, Directors, and key staff, is in Nigeria for a study visit as they plan for what they describe as their most complex election cycle yet. Benin Republic will conduct three elections within a three-month period in 2026: Legislative and Local Elections in January, followed by the Presidential election in April.
Yakubu explained that the purpose of the visit was for the CENA delegation to observe and learn from INEC’s processes and procedures. He highlighted areas of interest, including the legal framework for elections in Nigeria, the design and printing of election materials, the recruitment and training of poll officials, election budgeting, security during elections, the use of technology, accreditation of local and international observers, and engagement with electoral stakeholders.
The INEC Chairman assured the visiting delegation that the Commission had prepared a comprehensive program to cover all aspects of the electoral process. Various INEC departments are scheduled to brief the delegation, with the aim of enhancing peer learning and strengthening electoral processes. Yakubu also emphasized INEC’s commitment to providing CENA with the necessary documents and sharing experiences that will aid their election preparations.
“CENA is interested in the legal framework for elections in Nigeria, the design and printing of election materials and forms, the recruitment and training of poll officials, election budgeting and mode of payment to different service providers, security during elections, the use of technology, the accreditation of local and international observers, engagement with electoral stakeholders and other aspects of Nigeria’s electoral experience,” the INEC boss added.
He said the Commission has drawn up an “elaborate programme for the visit covering all aspects of the electoral process.”
“Various Departments within the Commission are scheduled to brief the visitors. Peer learning and support will help to strengthen processes.
“I want to assure CENA that we will fully share our experience with you and make available relevant documents that will enrich your understanding of our processes.”
