In a significant move towards strengthening its electoral system, the Commission Electorale Nationale Autonomie (CENA) of Benin Republic has sent a high-level delegation to Nigeria to study the operations of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The visit aims to gather insights as CENA prepares for what is expected to be its most complex electoral year in 2026.
The delegation, led by Dr. Sacca Lafia, President of CENA, arrived in Abuja on Monday to engage with INEC officials and learn from Nigeria’s extensive experience in organizing elections.
INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, welcomed the Benin delegation, promising full cooperation and sharing crucial information to support the country’s election preparations. “We will fully share our experience with you and make available relevant documents to enrich your understanding of our processes,” Yakubu stated.
Learning from Nigeria’s Experience
CENA is facing a daunting task in 2026, as the country plans to hold three major elections within a span of just three months. The elections will include the legislative and local elections in January, followed by the presidential election in April.
The visit is aimed at helping CENA better understand how to handle the complex logistics, security, and technical challenges of managing multiple elections within a short period. This is a first for Benin Republic, making the lessons from INEC particularly valuable.
Yakubu explained that CENA’s interest in Nigeria’s electoral process spans several key areas. These include the legal framework for elections, the printing and distribution of election materials, the recruitment and training of polling staff, and the budgetary processes that fund these activities.
“CENA is particularly interested in the legal framework for elections in Nigeria, the design and printing of election materials, the recruitment and training of poll officials, election budgeting, and the use of technology,” Yakubu noted. The Nigerian Electoral Commission has successfully incorporated technology in various aspects of its elections, which has been crucial in ensuring credibility and transparency.
Support for the Neighbors
The collaboration between INEC and CENA is a clear example of African countries working together to improve their electoral systems. While INEC has gained global recognition for its successful management of elections in the past, the challenges faced by CENA in 2026 require a unique approach.
In addition to the technical and logistical aspects of the elections, CENA is also interested in learning how INEC has handled election security, the accreditation of observers, and the involvement of various electoral stakeholders. As part of their visit, CENA officials will interact with different departments within INEC, each briefing them on its role in the electoral process.
Yakubu emphasized that the knowledge-sharing process would benefit both countries. “Peer learning and support will help to strengthen processes,” he said, adding that the collaborative effort would enhance the credibility of elections in both nations.
The INEC Chairman also praised CENA’s proactive approach in seeking help ahead of the 2026 elections. “It shows a commitment to improving electoral processes and ensuring free, fair, and credible elections,” Yakubu remarked. He assured the delegation that Nigeria would continue to offer support in any way possible.
Challenges Ahead for Benin Republic
While Nigeria has been able to manage multiple elections in the past, Benin Republic’s 2026 elections will present unique challenges. The sheer volume of elections—three major polls in just three months—is a logistical nightmare. CENA will have to ensure that voter registration, campaigning, security, and the counting of ballots happen smoothly, without interference or disruption.
The political climate in Benin Republic, along with security concerns, will add further layers of complexity. CENA is keen to learn from INEC’s experience in navigating these issues and ensuring that the elections are conducted fairly, without any allegations of voter manipulation or violence.
The visit by CENA is also a reminder of the importance of regional cooperation in Africa. As countries across the continent work towards improving democracy, the sharing of experiences and resources plays a critical role. INEC’s support for CENA aligns with the broader trend of African nations helping each other navigate the complexities of democratic governance.
CENA’s delegation will conclude their visit to INEC after a series of discussions and briefings with various departments of the Commission. They will return to Benin Republic with the valuable knowledge gained during the visit, which will be key as they work towards the successful execution of their elections in 2026.
