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ABUJA – The European Union (EU) has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to strengthening democracy in Nigeria, emphasizing a long-standing partnership that has fostered electoral reforms and democratic consolidation.
This pledge was made by Head of the EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Ambassador Gautier Mignot,during a courtesy visit to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) headquarters in Abuja on January 28, 2025.
In his first public engagement since assuming office four days earlier, Ambassador Mignot commended Nigeria’s democratic journey, which marked 25 years of uninterrupted governance last year. He described democracy as the most effective system for fostering human rights, fundamental freedoms, and social harmony.
He said, “Democracy is a constant cycle of progress, requiring nations to address challenges while seizing opportunities.”
He noted that robust electoral systems play a critical role in building public trust and sustaining credible democratic processes.
Highlighting global challenges such as misinformation and disinformation amplified by digital technologies, the ambassador stressed the importance of international collaboration in safeguarding democracy. “Nigeria and the European Union share a vision of democracy as the best way to organize societies. Our partnership is built on mutual respect and a shared commitment to overcoming these challenges together,” he added.
Ambassador Mignot revealed that the EU has committed €90 million to the Democracy Governance Program, a comprehensive initiative supporting Nigeria’s electoral processes and governance institutions, including INEC. Beyond financial assistance, the EU also provides technical expertise, diplomatic engagement, and election observation missions.
According to him, “The EU’s principle of political neutrality remains central to our engagement,” he stressed. “We are not here to interfere in Nigeria’s internal affairs or favor any political party. Our mission is to support democracy while respecting Nigeria’s sovereignty.”
Mignot pledged the EU’s unwavering partnership in fostering credible elections and advancing democratic values. “In these challenging times, the EU remains a steadfast ally to Nigeria. Together, we will continue to build on our shared experiences for a brighter democratic future.”
Welcoming the delegation, INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, commended the EU’s critical contributions to Nigeria’s democratic evolution, particularly since the nation’s return to civil rule in 1999.
He said, “The EU’s partnership has been instrumental in strengthening INEC’s capacity and consolidating the electoral process.” He highlighted EU support in areas such as capacity building, stakeholder engagement, and technical assistance, which have significantly improved six electoral cycles.
Prof. Yakubu also addressed the EU Election Observation Mission’s report on the 2023 general elections, which outlined 23 recommendations for improving Nigeria’s electoral processes. Eight of these recommendations fall within INEC’s jurisdiction, covering key areas like:
Dissemination of electoral guidelines, Enhanced training for election personnel,
Deployment of electoral technology, Continuous voter registration and database management,
Inclusion of marginalized groups in electoral processes, and Voting access for internally displaced persons (IDPs).
Yakubu disclosed that INEC has implemented several administrative measures based on these recommendations, including improving the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), expediting result uploads to the INEC Result Viewing Portal (IREV), and streamlining voter registration and PVC collection.
Addressing misconceptions about EU funding, Prof. Yakubu clarified that INEC does not receive direct funding from the EU. Instead, support is channeled through implementing partners who assist with stakeholder engagement, report publication, and technical services. Core activities like voter registration and election logistics remain solely funded by the Nigerian government.
According to the INEC Chairman,”The ambassador’s visit also focused on the EU Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria (EU-SDGN) initiative, which funds institutions such as INEC, the National Assembly, judiciary, political parties, security agencies, civil society organizations, and the media. Prof. Yakubu reaffirmed INEC’s commitment to its co-chairing role on the initiative’s steering committee alongside the EU.
Prof. Yakubu also disclosed that INEC has begun preparations for future elections by reviewing its Strategic Plan and Election Project Plan. He assured the EU delegation of the Commission’s commitment to regular consultations with stakeholders, including political parties, civil society, the media, and security agencies, to enhance Nigeria’s electoral framework.
In his closing remarks, Ambassador Mignot expressed confidence in Nigeria’s electoral institutions and reiterated the EU’s commitment to supporting credible and transparent elections.
“INEC’s dedication to advancing democracy is commendable. We stand ready to work with you in addressing emerging challenges and strengthening democratic governance in Nigeria,” he said.
