The Autonomous National Electoral Commission of Benin (CENA) has sought assistance from Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to prepare for its challenging electoral cycle in 2026. A delegation, led by President Sacca Lafia, is studying Nigeria’s electoral processes to effectively manage three elections within three months. INEC has expressed commitment to support CENA with necessary expertise, fostering regional collaboration in improving electoral integrity.
The Autonomous National Electoral Commission (CENA) of Benin has sought the expertise of Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in preparation for its forthcoming 2026 elections, which are expected to pose significant challenges. A delegation of twelve members, led by President Sacca Lafia, visited Abuja to better understand Nigeria’s electoral processes, particularly as Benin plans to hold its legislative, local, and presidential elections in quick succession during the early months of 2026.
During the visit, INEC’s Chairman, Mahmood Yakubu, affirmed Nigeria’s willingness to assist CENA in enhancing its electoral framework. He detailed the importance of this visit, noting CENA’s interest in several critical areas, including the legal framework for elections, development and distribution of election materials, recruitment and training procedures for polling officials, financial management of the elections, and security measures. Notably, CENA aims to adapt best practices from INEC, who has experience in overseeing multiple elections within a tight timeline.
President Lafia expressed gratitude for INEC’s hospitality and emphasized the significance of learning from Nigeria’s electoral history. He stated that understanding Nigeria’s approach will be indispensable in facilitating successful elections in Benin. The CENA delegation’s study visit is integral to ensuring that Benin’s electoral process upholds transparency and efficiency, especially given the unprecedented three elections scheduled in a span of three months, an unprecedented challenge for the commission.
This collaboration highlights the importance of regional support and knowledge sharing in bolstering electoral systems across West Africa, as well as reinforcing the relationship between neighboring nations in navigating the complexities of democratic governance. The shared experiences and guidance from INEC are expected to contribute significantly to enhancing the integrity and efficacy of the electoral process in Benin during the upcoming elections.
The context of the collaboration between CENA and INEC stems from the pressing need for effective electoral management in West Africa. With the complex electoral schedule set for Benin in 2026, which includes three major elections within just three months, CENA has recognized the importance of leveraging INEC’s extensive experience. Historically, many countries in the region have faced challenges regarding electoral integrity, transparency, and the management of election logistics, underscoring the necessity for knowledge sharing among electoral bodies.
In conclusion, the visit by CENA to INEC not only underscores the significance of regional cooperation in electoral management but also highlights the proactive steps being taken by Benin to ensure successful conduct of its elections in 2026. By adopting best practices and learning from Nigeria’s electoral framework, CENA aims to enhance its operational capabilities, ultimately strengthening the democratic process in Benin.
Original Source: punchng.com
