CENA Benin Officials Begin Study Visit To INEC

By Nathaniel Gana and Dominic James

Regional cooperation among African Electoral Management Bodies took the centre stage earlier today in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), when the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) welcomed a delegation from the Commission Electorale Nationale Autonomie (CENA) of the Republic Benin to its headquarters. The 12-member delegation, led by Dr Sacca Lafia, the President of CENA, was on a weeklong study visit.

The INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, who warmly received the visitors and described Lafia as his “friend and colleague,” explained that the Commission received a letter from CENA early in November, indicating its interest to undertake a study visit to INEC as they prepare for their most complex election in 2026.

He noted that the Republic of Benin Electoral Management Institution would, for the first time, be conducting three elections within three months in 2026. His words: “Legislative and Local elections will be held in January 2026, to be followed by the Presidential election in April 2026. For this reason, the President of the Commission is leading a 12-member delegation, comprising National Commissioners, Directors and critical staff to understudy our processses and procedures.”

According to Prof. Yakubu, of particular interest to the visitors are the legal framework for elections in Nigeria, the design and printing of election materials and forms, the recruitment and training of poll officals, as well as election budgeting and mode of paymement to different service providers. He said the delegation will also look into the use of technology, accreditation of local and international observers, engagement with electoral stakeholders and other aspects of Nigeria’s electoral experience.

In response to CENA’s request, INEC prepared a robust programme covering all aspects of Nigeria’s electoral system. Various departments within the Commisison will, over the next four days, deliver in-depth presentations, showcasing best practices and lessons learned from past elections.

Prof. Yakubu underscored the importance of peer learning and support in helping to strengthen processes, just as he assured the visitors: “We will fully share our experiences with you and provide relevant documents to enrich your understanding of our procedures.”

Responding, Dr. Lafia expressed deep appreciation for INEC’s hospitality and the extensive preparations made for the visit. He reaffirmed Benin’s commitment to conducting free, fair, and credible elections in 2026.

Lafia said: “This visit is critical for us. Nigeria’s electoral strides have positioned INEC as a model for the region, and we are here to learn and implement those lessons in Benin.”

The INEC team that received the CENA delegation included National Commissioners: Maj. Gen. Modibbo Alkali (rtd) mni, Prof. Rhoda Gumus, Prof. Sani Adams, Prof. Abdullahi Abdu Zuru and Secretary to the Commission, Mrs Rose Anthony-Oriaran. Others were the Chief Technical Adviser (CTA) to the Hon. Chairman, INEC, Prof. Bolade Eyinla; Chief Press Secretary (CPS), Mr. Rotimi Oyekanmi, Directors, and other senior officials of the Commission.