From David Onuoja, Abuja
A delegation from the Forum of State Independent Electoral Commissions of Nigeria (FOSIECON), today paid a courtesy visit to the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan.
The leader of the delegation and National Chairman, Mamman Nda Eri, on behalf of the delegation, congratulated Prof. Amupitan on his appointment as INEC Chairman with the aim of discussing potential areas of collaboration.
The visit also aimed to strengthen electoral governance at state and local government levels. FOSIECON proposed joint training programs, technical exchanges, and mentorship for SIEC officials in areas like election planning, logistics, and ICT systems.
They also sought to adapt INEC’s digital innovations, such as BVAS and IReV platforms, for SIEC use.
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Other proposed areas of collaboration include policy dialogue and electoral reform, voter education, and research and data exchange. FOSIECON emphasised the importance of institutional cooperation and shared learning to enhance election credibility and integrity.
Prof. Amupitan’s leadership and INEC’s experience in electoral administration and technological innovation were highlighted as valuable assets for FOSIECON’s efforts.
The delegation expressed commitment to professionalism, transparency, and continuous improvement in Nigeria’s electoral process.
Responding, Amupitan, INEC Chairman, who welcomed FOSIECON Delegation, emphasize collaboration saying, all their requests for collaboration especially in the area of training, technology among other things would be looked into.
He made emphasis on the importance of collaboration and open dialogue between INEC and FOSIECON to ensure free, fair, and credible elections across Nigeria.
He commended the members for their hard work and dedication to electoral processes at the state level, saying their efforts are crucial in shaping the democratic experience of Nigerian citizens.
Prof. Amupitan encouraged the sharing of best practices, addressing of challenges, and harnessing of innovative approaches to enhance electoral systems.
The INEC Chairman stressed that together, they can foster an environment where every voice is heard and every vote counts. He expressed his commitment to fruitful discussions and strengthening collaborative efforts with FOSIECON.
