The Autonomous National Electoral Commission of Benin is seeking guidance from Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission as it prepares for its 2026 elections. A delegation is studying Nigeria’s electoral processes to effectively conduct three elections within three months. INEC Chairman Mahmood Yakubu expressed support for this initiative, underscoring the importance of sharing electoral expertise to enhance regional democratic practices.
The Autonomous National Electoral Commission of Benin (CENA) has sought the expertise of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of Nigeria in preparation for its extensive electoral activities in 2026. A delegation of twelve, headed by CENA’s President, Sacca Lafia, arrived in Abuja for a study visit aimed at acquiring knowledge on the electoral processes of Nigeria. This exchange is particularly significant as Benin plans to conduct legislative and local elections in January 2026, followed closely by a presidential election in April of the same year.
During their visit, INEC Chairman Mahmood Yakubu conveyed Nigeria’s willingness to share its electoral expertise with Benin, highlighting the historical nature of CENA’s upcoming elections, which will occur within just three months for the first time. The focus areas include Nigeria’s electoral legal framework, election materials, poll official training, election budgeting, and security measures, among others. Yakubu affirmed the importance of fostering cooperation to enhance electoral systems regionally.
In his remarks, Sacca Lafia expressed gratitude for INEC’s warm welcome and underscored the critical nature of their visit. With three elections scheduled in a tightly condensed timeline, CENA aims to glean valuable lessons from Nigeria’s experiences to ensure effective electoral conduct in Benin.
The collaboration signifies not only a bilateral relationship between the two electoral bodies but also emphasizes the importance of learning and sharing best practices in democratic processes across West Africa.
The engagement between the Autonomous National Electoral Commission of Benin and the Independent National Electoral Commission of Nigeria is set against the backdrop of significant electoral endeavors in Benin. With three major elections planned within three months in 2026, CENA seeks to ensure its processes are well-informed and efficient by learning from Nigeria’s comprehensive electoral experience. As Benin prepares for these complex elections, the insights gained from INEC could prove invaluable to enhance the integrity and effectiveness of its electoral system.
In conclusion, the collaboration between CENA and INEC highlights a proactive approach to electoral management as Benin prepares for a historic series of elections in 2026. The insights from Nigeria’s electoral framework and processes are expected to contribute to the effective execution of legislative, local, and presidential elections within a short span of time. This partnership not only strengthens Benin’s electoral preparations but also fosters regional cooperation in democratic governance.
Original Source: punchng.com
