Lalong Assures EU of National Assembly's Commitment to Electoral Reforms

 

ABUJA, Nigeria – The European Union Elections Follow-up Mission to Nigeria has met with Senator Simon Bako Lalong, Chairman of the National Assembly's Joint Committee on Electoral Matters.

The EU delegation, currently in Nigeria, includes Ralph Michael Peters (Team Leader and Political Analyst), Eirini Gounari (Legal Expert), and Maros Gabriel (Election Expert). The Chief of Mission and Member of the European Parliament, Mr. Barry Andrews, is expected to join the team in early October.

During the meeting in Abuja, discussions centered on the status of the proposed Electoral Amendment Bill 2025 and its expected passage in time for the next general elections.

The team leader informed Senator Lalong that the mission aimed to understand the preparatory processes for the upcoming elections, particularly concerning ongoing electoral reforms.

In response, Senator Lalong welcomed the delegation and explained that the Senate and House of Representatives committees have been diligently working on the proposed amendment bill.

“The bill is still a working document that requires input from various stakeholders to address issues that will strengthen Nigeria's electoral process,” Lalong stated.

A statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Dr. Makut Macham, disclosed that the joint committee has met several times to discuss key issues, with each chamber of the National Assembly progressing with the legislative process.

Senator Lalong confirmed that the Conference Report on the Electoral Amendment will be discussed as soon as the Senate reconvenes from its recess. He added that further stakeholder input would be generated at a proposed retreat and public hearing, which the Joint Committee will analyze for consideration and possible passage.

While thanking the EU for its continued interest and support in improving Nigeria's electoral system, Lalong assured the mission that the committee is collaborating with civil society organizations, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and other stakeholders throughout the review process.

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