The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, has pledged to initiate a comprehensive review of the Electoral Act to enhance the conduct of the 2027 elections in Nigeria. This announcement was made during a meeting with a delegation from the European Union (EU) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in Abuja.
Tajudeen expressed the House’s commitment to identifying and addressing the shortcomings in the existing electoral law, aiming to ensure a more transparent and efficient electoral process in 2027. He emphasized the need for a cohesive legislative framework that would facilitate fair and credible elections in the country.
Furthermore, Tajudeen highlighted the House’s dedication to promoting women and youth participation in politics and governance. He acknowledged the invaluable support provided by the EU in bolstering Nigeria’s democratic institutions and stressed the significance of empowering women and youth in the political landscape.
In response to the EU delegation’s concerns regarding women’s representation, electoral reforms, and inter-parliamentary relations, Tajudeen assured them of the 10th House’s commitment to fostering collaboration and addressing these critical issues. He underscored the establishment of specialized committees focused on women and youth affairs within the House as a testament to their prioritization of these demographic groups.
EU Ambassador to Nigeria, Samuela Isopi, commended Nigeria’s democratic strides and reiterated the EU’s steadfast support for the country’s electoral processes. She emphasized the EU’s advocacy for democracy and expressed readiness to collaborate with the National Assembly in promoting electoral reforms, women’s representation, and inter-parliamentary engagements.
The EU delegation’s visit served as a platform for fruitful discussions aimed at reinforcing democratic principles and advancing inclusive governance in Nigeria. This engagement underscored the mutual commitment of the Nigerian government and the EU to fortifying democratic institutions and fostering meaningful political participation for women and youth.
The meeting concluded with a shared understanding of the imperative to address electoral challenges and promote gender inclusivity, aligning with international democratic standards and principles. The collaborative efforts between the Nigerian legislature and the EU signal a pivotal step towards enhancing the integrity and inclusiveness of Nigeria’s electoral system leading up to the 2027 elections.
