The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to delivering peaceful, transparent, credible and inclusive general elections in 2027, assuring the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) of its readiness to uphold democratic standards.
The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, gave the assurance on Thursday, October 29, during a meeting with an ECOWAS Pre-Election Fact-Finding Mission in Abuja.
The delegation, led by former Sierra Leone Vice-President Victor Bockarie Foh, included ECOWAS Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, Francess Piagie Alghali, and other representatives of the regional bloc.
The mission is in Nigeria to evaluate preparations for the 2027 elections through engagements with key institutions and stakeholders, including the Independent National Electoral Commission, political parties, security agencies, civil society groups and the media.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu said the government would ensure that the electoral process complies with the provisions of the Nigerian Constitution and relevant electoral laws.
She identified institutional readiness, transparent voter accreditation, efficient result management and the prompt resolution of electoral disputes as essential elements of a credible election.
The minister also emphasised the need for stronger collaboration among security agencies to guarantee the safety of voters, candidates, electoral personnel and observers, while maintaining professionalism and political neutrality.
Discussions also focused on addressing misinformation and disinformation, expanding voter education and removing barriers to participation for persons with disabilities and other vulnerable groups.
She further assured the delegation that Nigeria was prepared to receive credible international election observers to promote openness and strengthen public confidence in the electoral process.
Both parties highlighted the importance of credible elections in Nigeria, noting that the outcome of the 2027 electoral process would have wider implications for democratic governance, political stability and regional cooperation across West Africa.
