BREAKING: Benin’s electoral body seeks INEC’s expertise ahead of 2026 elections

The Autonomous National Electoral Commission of Benin has turned to the Independent National Electoral Commission for guidance as it gears up for its most challenging electoral season in 2026.

A 12-member CENA delegation, led by its President, Sacca Lafia, arrived in Abuja on Monday, for a study visit to INEC.

They aim to gain insights into Nigeria’s electoral processes to help manage three major elections scheduled to take place in Benin within three months—legislative and local elections in January 2026, followed by the presidential election in April 2026.

During the visit, INEC Chairman, Mahmood Yakubu, expressed Nigeria’s readiness to support Benin’s electoral preparations.

“Early last month, we received a letter from CENA indicating its interest in undertaking 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,” Yakubu said.

He assured CENA of INEC’s commitment to sharing its expertise, noting that such collaboration strengthens electoral systems across the region.

Lafia commended INEC for its hospitality, emphasisingthe importance of the visit.

“The President has mandated the conduct of three elections within three months in 2026. We are going to learn from Nigeria’s experience so that we can do well, this meeting and engagement will surely make that come to pass,” he said.