The Benin Republic’s Autonomous National Electoral Commission (CENA) officials have visited Nigerian Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), to understudy the country’s electoral processes.
INEC Chairman, Mahmood Yakubu, received the 12-member delegation from Benin Republic alongside other top officials of the Commission at INEC headquarters in Abuja on Monday.
The delegates, led by CENA President, Sacca Lafia, are in companying of Some National Commissioners, Directors, and other senior staff.
According to Lafia, the visit was aimed at learning from Nigeria’s electoral processes, and best practices as Benin Republic prepares for its upcoming 2026 elections.
INEC Chairman said, “Early last month, we received a letter from CENA indicating its interest to undertake a study visit to INEC Nigeria as they prepare for their most complex election in 2026.”
“In particular, 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.”
However, INEC 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.
Yakubu assures CENA that the Commission will fully share experience with their counterparts and make available relevant documents that will enrich their understanding of our processes.
