'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER – A delegation from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of Nigeria recently concluded a visit to the United States to observe the country’s just-concluded presidential election. The observation mission, led by National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee (IVEC), Mr. Sam Olumekun, included key INEC officials: Mrs. Rose Oriaran-Anthony, Secretary to the Commission, and Mr. Nwankwo Okezie, Deputy Director.
The visit was in line with INEC’s long-standing tradition of observing national elections in other countries as part of its commitment to promoting democratic processes. In turn, INEC regularly invites and accredits international and local election observers to monitor the general elections in Nigeria.
During their time in the United States, the INEC team visited various polling stations and interacted with election officials to gain insights into the electoral process. The team observed election procedures, the handling of voter registration, the use of technology in voting, and the overall management of the election day activities.
According to Mr. Olumekun, the trip provided an important opportunity for the INEC delegation to learn from the U.S. electoral system and apply relevant best practices to Nigeria's electoral process. “Our role as election observers is not only to ensure transparency and credibility but also to continuously improve our own systems by learning from others,” he said.
The INEC mission, which was well received by U.S. election authorities, also gave the Nigerian delegation a chance to discuss various aspects of election management, including voter education and election security.
The visit was seen as a significant part of INEC's ongoing efforts to strengthen its election observation frameworks and ensure that the Nigerian electorate benefits from an informed, transparent, and efficient electoral process.
The INEC mission’s observation of the U.S. election is part of the broader global exchange of electoral knowledge and best practices that helps to improve democratic governance across nations.
