INEC Does Not Receive Direct Funding From EU- Yakubu

The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, says it does not receive direct funding from the European Union to carry out its activities.

INEC Chairman, Mahmoud Yakubu stated this in Abuja when the newly appointed EU Ambassador, Gautier Mignot visited him.

Professor Yakubu explained that the EU and other development partners provide indirect support such as technical assistance, consultancy services, and capacity building programmes.

He said that activities like voter registration, production of Permanent Voter Cards, training and remuneration of ad hoc staff, and others remained the sovereign responsibility of the Commission.

He said that out of the 23 recommendations made by the EU in its report after the 2023 General Election, eight required action by the Commission while 15 were expected to be addressed by the Executive, Judiciary and Legislative arms of government as well as other stakeholders.

Professor Yakubu said the Commission was ready to always collaborate with the EU, especially on the third phase of the European Union Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria.

In a remark, the new EU Ambassador to Nigeria, Gautier Mignot commended the Country’s steady progress in Democratic governance.

He said that without a credible electoral system that enjoys the trust of the citizens and stakeholders, there would be no good democracy.

Ambassador Mignot reaffirmed the Commitment of the EU in respecting the sovereignty of Nigeria while providing expertise to strengthen the electoral system.

Kayode Oyedare, Edited By Grace Namiji