- Dr. Sacca Lafia of CENA requested collaboration with INEC to learn from Nigeria’s electoral processes ahead of Benin’s 2026 elections
- The study visit aims to enhance Benin’s electoral integrity, focusing on legal frameworks, election security, and the use of technology
The President of Benin Republic’s electoral commission, Commission Electorale Nationale Autonomie (CENA), Dr. Sacca Lafia, has called for collaboration with Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) ahead of their 2026 general elections.
Dr. Lafia requested on Monday during a study visit to INEC headquarters in Abuja, where he led a 12-member delegation.
The visit aimed to learn from Nigeria’s electoral processes, procedures, and best practices as Benin prepares for what it calls its “most complex election” in 2026.
Both countries are members of the ECOWAS Network of Electoral Commissions (ECONEC) and share a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to support each other in organizing credible elections.
While welcoming the delegation, INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, stated that CENA had formally expressed interest in learning from INEC’s operations last month.
He noted that Benin Republic will, for the first time, conduct three major elections within three months.
“The legislative and local elections will take place in January 2026, followed by the presidential election in April 2026,” Yakubu said.
He added that CENA’s study tour focuses on key areas, including:
- Legal frameworks for elections
- Design and printing of election materials
- Recruitment and training of polling officials
- Election budgeting and payments to service providers
- Election security measures
- The use of technology in elections
- Accreditation of observers
- Stakeholder engagement
Yakubu highlighted that INEC had prepared a comprehensive program for the visit, covering all aspects of its electoral processes. Various departments within INEC would brief the CENA team to ensure effective knowledge sharing.
Dr. Sacca Lafia expressed optimism that the collaboration would enhance Benin’s ability to conduct successful elections, further strengthening democracy in the region.
The delegation, consisting of national commissioners, directors, and key staff members, will meet with INEC officials during the visit to better understand Nigeria’s electoral systems and practices.
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