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Benin’s Electoral Commission Seeks INEC Collaboration for 2026 Elections

The President of the Commission Electorale Nationale Autonome (CENA) of the Republic of Benin, Dr. Sacca Lafia, has sought collaboration with Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure the success of Benin’s 2026 general elections.

Dr. Lafia made the call on Monday during a study visit to INEC headquarters in Abuja. Leading a 12-member delegation, he emphasized the importance of learning from Nigeria’s electoral processes and best practices to enhance Benin’s preparedness for its 2026 legislative, local, and presidential elections.

The visit aligns with the ECOWAS Network of Electoral Commissions (ECONEC) framework and builds on the existing memorandum of understanding (MoU) between both countries for mutual electoral support to deepen democracy in the region.

Welcoming the delegation, INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, highlighted key areas of interest expressed by CENA, including:

  • Legal framework for elections
  • Design and printing of election materials
  • Recruitment and training of poll officials
  • Election budgeting and payment to service providers
  • Security arrangements during elections
  • Use of technology in voting
  • Accreditation of election observers
  • Engagement with electoral stakeholders

Prof. Yakubu stated that INEC had prepared a comprehensive program to guide the delegation’s study, covering all aspects of Nigeria’s electoral processes. He stressed that peer learning and regional collaboration are vital for strengthening electoral systems across West Africa.

As Benin prepares for its Legislative and Local Elections in January 2026 and its Presidential Election in April 2026, Dr. Sacca Lafia expressed confidence in leveraging Nigeria’s experience to improve electoral outcomes in Benin. He was joined by National Commissioners, directors, and key staff members of CENA.

The collaboration underscores the importance of cross-border partnerships in fostering credible and transparent elections within the region.

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