The United Nations has assured the Independent National Electoral Commission of its support for peaceful and credible elections ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.
The assurance was given by Mr. Leonardo Santos Simão, the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for West Africa and the Sahel and Head of the UN Office for West Africa and the Sahel, during a courtesy visit to INEC’s headquarters on Wednesday.
Simão led a delegation to the Commission to demonstrate the UN’s support as INEC prepares for the 2027 polls.
According to a post on INEC’s official X account, Simão said the visit was aimed at showing the UN’s backing for the Commission, noting that INEC faces a significant responsibility in managing the electoral process in a country confronted by terrorism and other security challenges.
He stressed that elections should not become another source of violence or instability for Nigeria but should instead serve as instruments for promoting peace, democratic stability and national development.
“We are here, pleased to give you moral support, that you are not alone in facing this mammoth task,” Simão said.
He added that the United Nations would maintain a presence during the elections, not as observers, since it had no mandate to undertake election observation, but to encourage positive conduct and support an atmosphere conducive to peaceful participation.
Simão further noted that peaceful and successful elections in Nigeria would have implications beyond the country’s borders, serving as an inspiration to other countries in West Africa and contributing to regional stability and integration.
