 visited Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral){kind=link}
A 12-member team from Benin Republic’s Autonomous National Electoral Commission (CENA) visited Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on a study tour as part of their preparations for the 2026 elections.
The delegation, led by CENA President Sacca Lafia, comprised national commissioners, directors, and senior staff.
They were welcomed on Monday at INEC headquarters in Abuja by Mahmood Yakubu, INEC Chairman, and other officials.
Lafia explained that the visit was aimed at learning from Nigeria’s electoral systems and best practices.
“We seek to draw lessons from Nigeria’s experiences to help us navigate what will be one of our most challenging elections,” Lafia said.
Speaking at the event, Yakubu underscored the importance of the visit and acknowledged the complexities CENA will face in its 2026 elections.
He noted that Benin will, for the first time, conduct three major elections within three months: legislative and local elections in January, followed by the presidential election in April.
Yakubu emphasized INEC’s readiness to share expertise and outlined a comprehensive programme tailored to CENA’s interests.
These include Nigeria’s legal framework for elections, election material design and printing, recruitment and training of poll officials, election budgeting, security arrangements, the use of technology, and accreditation of observers.
“We have prepared a detailed briefing programme for CENA, covering every aspect of Nigeria’s electoral experience.
“Our officials will provide all necessary support, including resources and documentation, to assist their preparations for the upcoming elections,” Yakubu said.
The visit reflects Benin’s efforts to enhance its electoral system by adopting tested practices from neighboring Nigeria.
Below are pictures from the visitation:
