The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to conducting peaceful, credible, transparent and inclusive general elections in 2027, assuring the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) of its determination to strengthen Nigeria’s democratic process.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, gave the assurance during a meeting with the ECOWAS Pre-Election Fact-Finding Mission to Nigeria at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abuja. The delegation was led by former Sierra Leonean Vice-President Victor Bockarie Foh.

Odumegwu-Ojukwu said the government was committed to ensuring that the elections complied with the Nigerian Constitution and applicable electoral laws. She described the forthcoming polls as a defining moment for Nigeria’s democracy, with potential implications for democratic governance and stability across West Africa.

The minister identified institutional preparedness, transparent voter accreditation, effective management of election results and timely resolution of electoral disputes as essential to building public confidence in the electoral system.

She also emphasised the need for effective coordination among security agencies to protect candidates, electoral officials, election observers and voters before, during and after the polls. According to her, security personnel must perform their duties professionally and impartially while respecting human rights.

On public participation, Odumegwu-Ojukwu stressed the importance of voter education and the effective enforcement of electoral laws. She also highlighted the roles of political parties, civil society organisations, traditional institutions and the media in promoting peaceful elections.

The minister expressed concern over misinformation and disinformation, calling for accurate, accessible and timely information about the electoral process. She further advocated measures to improve the participation of persons with disabilities and other vulnerable groups in the elections.

Speaking on the mission’s objectives, Foh said the delegation was in Nigeria to assess preparations for the 2027 general elections through consultations with relevant institutions and stakeholders. He disclosed that the mission had engaged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), political parties, security agencies, civil society organisations and media representatives.

Foh said the mission’s preliminary assessment indicated a favourable environment for the forthcoming elections, although consultations were still ongoing. He added that the delegation would submit a report containing its findings and recommendations at the conclusion of the exercise.

The former Sierra Leonean vice-president welcomed the assurances given by the Nigerian government and underscored the importance of continued engagement with stakeholders and addressing concerns identified during the assessment.

The meeting ended with both sides reaffirming their commitment to promoting democracy, peace, stability and prosperity across the West African sub-region.