The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC has called for deeper collaboration with the United Kingdom in election security, technology, cybersecurity and voter education as it intensifies preparations for Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.
INEC Chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan made the call on wednesday while receiving the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja.
Amupitan described the UK as a longstanding partner in Nigeria’s democratic journey, saying the relationship had evolved beyond election observation and technical assistance into broader institutional support for strengthening democratic governance.
Amupitan explains that the commission had made significant progress in preparing for the 2027 polls despite what he calls a compressed electoral timetable, including the rollout of enhanced technology, improved cybersecurity architecture and expanded voter registration.
The INEC chairman identified key areas where Nigeria and the UK could deepen cooperation, including election technology, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, combating misinformation and disinformation, crisis communication, conflict prevention, civic education and the inclusion of women, youths and persons with disabilities in the electoral process.
Speaking, the British High Commissioner, Richard Montgomery reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s democratic institutions, describing the relationship between both countries as a strategic partnership.
Montgomery said he and his team had been engaging with INEC to better understand the Commission’s preparations for upcoming off-cycle governorship elections and the 2027 general elections.
Montgomery, who said he would complete his diplomatic assignment in Nigeria in about six weeks time, expressed confidence that his successor would continue to build productive relationship with INEC as preparations for the 2027 elections gather momentum.
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Editor: Ken Eseni
