A 12-member delegation from Benin Republic’s Autonomous National Electoral Commission (CENA) visited Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to learn the best way of conducting electoral processes in their country.
The delegation, led by CENA President Sacca Lafia and comprising national commissioners, directors, and senior staff, was hosted on Monday at INEC headquarters in Abuja by Mahmood Yakubu, INEC chairman, alongside other commission members.
According to Lafia, the visit aimed to study Nigeria’s electoral systems and adopt best practices as Benin prepares for its 2026 elections. Speaking during the event, Yakubu acknowledged the visit’s significance and the unique challenges CENA faces ahead of its upcoming polls.
“Early last month, we received a letter from CENA indicating its interest to undertake a study visit to INEC Nigeria as they prepare for what they described as their most complex election in 2026,” Yakubu said.
For the first time, CENA will oversee three elections within three months: legislative and local elections in January 2026, followed by a presidential election in April. Yakubu assured the delegation of Nigeria’s support and expertise to help navigate this challenge.
INEC prepared a comprehensive programme tailored to CENA’s needs, addressing topics such as the legal framework for elections, design and printing of election materials, recruitment and training of poll officials, election budgeting, security, and the use of technology. Yakubu emphasized CENA’s interest in stakeholder engagement and the accreditation of observers.
INEC officials from various departments will brief the delegation throughout their visit, sharing Nigeria’s electoral experience in detail. Yakubu promised full access to resources and documentation to help CENA prepare for its 2026 elections.
