Forum of State Electoral Commissions Meet Over Emerging Electoral Challenges
The 14th National Delegates Conference of the Forum of State Independent Electoral Commissions of Nigeria (FOSIECON) has opened on Wednesday in Katsina with a focus on finding solutions to emerging electoral challenges.
The conference with the theme “Myth of Voter Apathy in Nigeria’s Elections,” brought together members of the forum and officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, and other electoral stakeholders from across the country.
The National Chairman of the Forum, Mamman Nda Eri, said the conference would provide an opportunity to examine emerging electoral challenges, exchange experiences, strengthen institutional capacity, and develop practical strategies for improving electoral administration nationwide.
According to him, the state state independent electoral commissions are committed to innovation, transparency, and strict adherence to the rule of law.
Mamman Nda Eri, FOSIECON Chairman
Nda Eri expressed confidence that the conference resolutions would further strengthen democratic institutions across Nigeria.
The forum chairman commended Governor Dikko Umaru Radda of Katsina State for hosting the conference.
He described Katsina as a worthy host because of the administration’s commitment to democratic governance, institutional development, and quality public service.
In a message to the conference, Governor Radda called on electoral stakeholders nationwide to develop practical strategies for addressing voter apathy and strengthening public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic process.
Radda, represented by the Commissioner for Water Resources, Mannir Ayyuba Sullubawa, described the conference as timely, noting that Nigeria’s democracy can only flourish when electoral institutions remain transparent, accountable, credible, and responsive to the aspirations of the people.
“State Independent Electoral Commissions occupy a strategic position in consolidating our democracy by conducting credible local government elections that genuinely reflect the will of the electorate and inspire public confidence,” he said.
He urged participants to utilise the conference to examine practical solutions capable of increasing citizens’ participation in elections and strengthening confidence in the nation’s electoral process.
“As we prepare for future electoral cycles, we must continue to strengthen our institutions, promote transparency, and deepen public trust in the democratic process,” he added.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the event and former Deputy Governor of Katsina State, Alhaji Tukur Ahmed Jikamshi, described FOSIECON as a strategic institution in Nigeria that has continued to play vital role in promoting constitutional democracy through credible local government elections.
On his part, the Chairman of the Katsina State Independent Electoral Commission (KTSIEC) and National Public Secretary of FOSIECON, Alhaji Lawal Alhassan Faskari, said the conference would enable members to review their operations, improve electoral administration, and find practical solutions to voter apathy in Nigeria.
The conference brought together officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, Chairmen and Commissioners of State Independent Electoral Commissions from across the federation, development partners, and other stakeholders.
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