INEC Chair, Yakubu, Pledges Support To Benin Republic’s Electoral Commission

The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Mahmood Yakubu, has assured the Chairman of Commission Electorale Nationale Autonomie (CENA) Of Benin Republic, Sacca Lafia, of support ahead of the country’s 2026 general elections.

INEC Chair, Yakubu, said this as Sacca Lafia led a delegation of CENA members to understudy Nigeria’s electoral law and processes, on Monday in Abuja.

In his address, Professor Yakubu promised to share every experience of the commission with CENA to ensure peaceful election in the West African border nation to Nigeria.

His address read: “It is my pleasure to warmly welcome my friend and colleague, the President (Chairman) of the Commission Electorale Nationale Autonomie (CENA) of the Republic of Benin, Dr Sacca Lafia, to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). I also extend the same warm welcome to other senior officials of CENA to INEC Nigeria.

“Early last month, we received a letter from CENA indicating its interest to undertake a study visit to INEC Nigeria as they prepare for what they described as their most complex election in 2026. For the first time in its history, CENA will be conducting three elections within a period of three months. 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 processes and procedures.

“In particular, CENA is interested in the legal framework for elections in Nigeria, the design and printing of election materials and forms, the recruitment and training of poll officials, election budgeting and mode of payment to different service providers, security during elections, the use of technology, the accreditation of local and international observers, engagement with electoral stakeholders and other aspects of Nigeria’s electoral experience.

“In response, the Commission has drawn up an elaborate programme for the visit covering all aspects of the electoral process. Various Departments within the Commission are scheduled to brief the visitors. Peer learning and support will help to strengthen processes. I want to assure CENA that we will fully share our experience with you and make available relevant documents that will enrich your understanding of our processes.

“Mr. President, I welcome you and your delegation once again to INEC Nigeria.

“I thank you and God bless.”