Benin Republic’s electoral body understudies INEC

The electoral body of the Republic of Benin, the Autonomous National Electoral Commission of Benin (CENA, is currently in Nigeria to understudy the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

A 12-member delegation comprising National Commissioners, Directors and critical staff was led by CENA President, Dr Sacca Lafia to INEC’s headquarters in Abuja.

The delegation was received by INEC Chairman, Mahmood Yakubu, and other members of the commission.

According to a terse statement by INEC, “The primary aim of the visit was for CENA to learn from Nigeria’s electoral processes, procedures, and best practices as they prepare for their upcoming 2026 elections.”

CENA will be conducting three elections within three months, consisting of legislative and local elections to be held in January 2026 and the Presidential election in April 2026.

In his remarks, Yakubu said 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.

He said INEC has drawn up an elaborate programme for the visitors, covering all aspects of the electoral process, adding that various departments within the commission are scheduled to brief them.

He assured CENA that INEC will fully share its experience and make available relevant documents that will enrich its understanding of Nigeria’s electoral processes.