INEC Chairman Mahmood Yakubu says the Commission is working with the National Assembly to fast-track electoral reforms.
He stressed that early passage of bills is vital for guidelines, staff training, and smooth 2027 elections.
The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu, has confirmed that the Commission is in active discussions with the National Assembly to fast-track the passage of electoral reform bills before future elections.
He made this known in Abuja while hosting a European Union Election Observation Follow-Up Mission at the Commission’s headquarters. According to him, the consultations have included a retreat recently held with the Joint Committee on Electoral Matters.
Professor Yakubu explained that a timely conclusion of the reforms is essential, as INEC cannot finalize election guidelines or commence staff training without a clear legal framework.
The visit by the EU delegation was part of its ongoing effort to track the implementation of recommendations made after the 2023 general election.
Yakubu pointed out that the EU Observation Mission submitted 830 recommendations, but only a small fraction required direct action from INEC. Most of the proposals, he said, were meant for other institutions and stakeholders.
He added that the Commission had already reviewed the recommendations, classifying them into administrative adjustments, collaborative measures with partners, and legislative amendments. Contributions from both local and international observer groups were also factored into a consolidated reform report, which now contains more than 140 proposals.
Reaffirming INEC’s commitment to openness and continuous improvement, the Chairman said the Commission welcomes international partners, including the EU, African Union, and Commonwealth, to observe the 2027 elections.
Leader of the EU delegation, Barrett Andrews, praised Nigeria for making visible progress since the 2023 polls, especially in the areas of judicial, constitutional, and administrative reforms. He added that the Union is encouraged by the steps Nigeria is taking to act on its earlier recommendations.
