FOSIECON Chairman Tasks Electoral Bodies on Restoring Public Confidence to Boost Voter Participation

July 23, 2026.

The National Chairman of the Forum of State Independent Electoral Commissions of Nigeria (FOSIECON), Hon. Mamman Nda Eri, has called on State Independent Electoral Commissions across the country to intensify efforts at restoring public confidence in the electoral process through innovation, transparency and strict adherence to the rule of law.

Hon. Nda Eri made the call at the opening of the 14th FOSIECON National Delegates Conference holding in Katsina State, where electoral managers, officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies and other stakeholders gathered to deliberate on the theme, “Myth of Voter Apathy in Nigeria’s Elections.”

Addressing delegates, the FOSIECON Chairman described the conference as an important platform for electoral administrators to review emerging challenges confronting elections in Nigeria, exchange practical experiences and develop workable solutions capable of improving electoral administration, particularly at the grassroots.

He noted that increasing citizens’ participation in elections requires sustained efforts to strengthen electoral institutions, improve public trust and ensure that every election reflects the genuine choice of the people.

Hon. Eri urged members of the various State Independent Electoral Commissions to remain focused on professionalism, accountability and continuous innovation, stressing that the resolutions of the conference should translate into practical reforms that would further strengthen democratic governance across the country.

The FOSIECON Chairman also expressed appreciation to the Governor of Katsina State, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, for hosting the national gathering, describing the state’s commitment to democratic development and institutional growth as commendable.

Speaking, Governor Radda, represented by the Commissioner for Water Resources, Hon. Mannir Ayuba Sullubawa, challenged participants to identify practical measures for addressing voter apathy, strengthening democratic institutions and encouraging greater citizens’ participation in elections.

The governor reaffirmed that democracy flourishes only when institutions are transparent, accountable and responsive to the aspirations of the people, adding that State Independent Electoral Commissions play a critical role in ensuring credible local government elections.

He further commended the Katsina State Independent Electoral Commission (KTSIEC) for successfully conducting peaceful local government elections without any post-election litigation.

The conference, hosted in Katsina, brings together delegates from State Independent Electoral Commissions nationwide to deliberate on strategies aimed at improving electoral credibility, increasing voter participation and deepening democratic governance in Nigeria.