The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has reiterated its dedication to ensuring that the elections in 2027 are free, fair, credible, and transparent. This commitment was highlighted during a meeting with a delegation from the International Republican Institute (IRI) in Abuja.

The team, led by IRI President Dr. Dan Twining, is visiting Nigeria from August 11 to 21, 2026, as part of a Pre-Election Assessment Mission. Their goal is to evaluate how ready INEC is for the upcoming General Election in 2027 and to find ways for international support and collaboration.

During a discussion with the delegation, INEC Chairman Prof. Joash Amupitan emphasized that this visit comes at an important time, right after the successful Osun State governorship election and just before campaign activities begin for the 2027 elections.

Amupitan noted that INEC has used recent off-cycle elections and legislative by-elections to refine its electoral technology, logistics, and security measures.

He added that the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and the INEC Result Viewing (IReV) portal have shown high reliability in their operations, with result-upload rates surpassing 98 percent in recent elections.

He stated that the progress made has led to increased transparency and public trust in the electoral process.

The INEC chairman mentioned that the Commission is getting ready for one of the biggest electoral operations in the country’s history, planning to send out around 1.4 million temporary staff to over 176,000 polling places nationwide.

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He explained that INEC is enhancing its logistics operations, improving early deployment plans, and working closely with transport unions to ensure that election materials and personnel are moved on time.

Amupitan also pointed out reforms in voter registration, such as online registration, regular updates of the voters’ list, and steps to make sure voter data is accurate.

He emphasized that the Commission is dedicated to making the electoral process more inclusive by improving access for people with disabilities, pregnant women, new mothers, and older citizens.

Regarding new threats to electoral integrity, the INEC chairman noted that misinformation, disinformation, and the misuse of artificial intelligence are significant concerns leading up to the 2027 elections.

He revealed that the Commission has set up a unit focused on AI to create guidelines for using artificial intelligence responsibly and to address false information that could damage public trust in elections.

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Amupitan emphasized that INEC remains neutral and does not favor any political party or candidate. He pointed out that their main job is to hold elections that truly represent the wishes of Nigerians, using the recent Osun governorship election as proof of their dedication to fair and peaceful voting.

He also recognized the importance of getting more people to vote in future elections.

Twining added that the IRI mission aims to help create a competitive, peaceful, and trustworthy electoral process in Nigeria. He mentioned that the delegation wants to learn about INEC’s preparations, identify potential challenges, and find ways for the international community to support and strengthen democracy in Nigeria.

“We know how committed Nigerians are to exercising their democratic rights.

“Our interest is a competitive, peaceful and credible election in Nigeria, and we look forward to learning how we can support that objective,” Twining said.