Mahmood Yakubu, the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has expressed the commission’s openness to future collaboration with the European Union (EU), despite complaints surrounding the unfavorable report from the subnational union regarding the 2023 general elections.
Yakubu mentioned that INEC will carefully review the tools developed in collaboration with the EU, aiming to adopt or modify them to address current and emerging election challenges.
While highlighting that the core electoral activities are funded by the Federal Government, Yakubu acknowledged that DAI (Development Alternatives, Inc.) provides support for capacity building, technical assistance, non-sensitive reports, and information flyers.
Yakubu expressed gratitude for the collaboration and stated, “The commission is open to future collaboration with the EU through its implementing partners.”
Elaborating on the partnership between EU and DAI, Yakubu explained, “This support is designed to address five thematic areas: enhancing planning and operational capacities, improving internal communication and external engagement, enhancing the capacity of the Electoral Institute for training and research, improving legal and policy frameworks, and incorporating technological innovations.”
He revealed that tools like the Collation and Returning Officers Management System (CROMS) and the Election Results Management System (ERMS) were developed in collaboration with DAI to improve the efficiency, accuracy, and credibility of electoral processes.
Yakubu assured that these tools were not designed for specific electoral cycles and would be considered for adoption or adaptation to meet present electoral challenges.
He also mentioned that EU-SDGN Phase II support to INEC covers two electoral cycles, including assistance to various sectors such as the National Assembly, the Judiciary, political parties, media, civil society organizations, and promoting inclusivity.
The Chairman promised that INEC will carefully evaluate these tools to address the immediate and emerging challenges in conducting elections.