Benin’s CENA Commission Studies Nigeria’s Electoral System for 2026 Elections

The Commission Electorale Nationale Autonomie of Benin sent a delegation to Nigeria to learn about its electoral system in preparation for the complex 2026 elections. The visit aims to gather information on legal frameworks, voter materials, and training of election officials, under the leadership of CENA Chairman Dr. Sacca Lafia and INEC Chairman Professor Mahmood Yakubu.

Officials from the Commission Electorale Nationale Autonomie (CENA) of the Republic of Benin recently visited Nigeria to observe and study its electoral system. The delegation was received by Professor Mahmood Yakubu, the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). During the meeting, Professor Yakubu emphasized that this visit was prompted by CENA’s preparations for its upcoming elections in 2026, which the commission has acknowledged to be particularly complex due to the simultaneous scheduling of three elections over three months.

CENA’s agenda includes conducting legislative and local elections in January 2026, which will be succeeded by a presidential election in April 2026. In this context, Dr. Sacca Lafia, the Chairman of CENA, is leading a twelve-member team composed of National Commissioners, Directors, and key staff members, all aiming to reference and learn from INEC’s electoral procedures.

Professor Yakubu further informed the CENA officials that their main interests lie in comprehending Nigeria’s legal electoral framework, including the design and printing of essential election materials, as well as the recruitment and training processes for poll officials, budget management for elections, and the payment modalities to service providers.

The electoral landscape in Africa has been marked by numerous challenges, necessitating substantial improvements in electoral processes. CENA’s initiative to study Nigeria’s electoral mechanics represents a proactive step towards enhancing its own electoral framework in preparation for its 2026 elections. This undertaking reflects a growing trend among African nations to learn from each other’s electoral experiences, thereby strengthening democracy across the continent.

In summary, the study visit by the CENA delegation to Nigeria illustrates a commitment to refining electoral practices in Benin ahead of their complex 2026 elections. By examining Nigeria’s established electoral system, CENA aims to acquire valuable insights that will facilitate the planning and execution of their upcoming elections, ultimately seeking to enhance democratic processes in the Republic of Benin.

Original Source: newtelegraphng.com