The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has commenced a comprehensive review of its 2022 Regulations and Guidelines for Political Parties to align them with the provisions of the newly enacted Electoral Act 2026.
The three-day technical workshop, holding in Ikot Ekpene, marks the Commission’s first formal step toward harmonising its regulatory framework with the updated electoral law signed in February 2026.
The workshop will run from March 4 to March 6, 2026, this marks the Commission’s first formal engagement to harmonise its regulatory framework with the provisions of the new law signed in February 2026.
INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner for Akwa Ibom State, Obo Effanga, in his welcome remarks, described the retreat as an opportunity for the Commission to deepen its understanding of the new Electoral Act and update its guidelines to ensure transparency, fairness, and administrative efficiency.
He noted that while Nigeria’s electoral system has witnessed incremental improvements over time, continuous reform remains essential to sustaining voter confidence and strengthening democratic institutions.
Dr. Baba Bila, National Commissioner and Chairman of the Election and Party Monitoring Committee, stated that the review of the 2022 Regulations and Guidelines for Political Parties could not have come at a more critical time. He explained that this is the Commission’s first workshop to examine the implications of the Electoral Act 2026 on its regulations and guidelines for various electoral activities.
He noted that it is not coincidental that the first document slated for review is the Regulations and Guidelines for Political Parties 2022, as it governs the registration, statutory compliance, administration, conduct, and monitoring of political parties and related political activities.
A major highlight of the reform process is the integration of the Political Party Performance Index (PPPI), developed through collaboration between INEC and the Westminster Foundation for Democracy (WFD).
Country Director of WFD Nigeria, Adebowale Olorunmola, said the 2022 Regulations served Nigeria well during the 2023 general elections but acknowledged that “current realities” demand updated operational tools.
He emphasized that political parties must evolve beyond mere election platforms into viable democratic institutions characterized by internal democracy, inclusivity, accountability, and legal compliance.
Olorunmola commended the leadership of Prof. Amupitan and reaffirmed WFD’s commitment to supporting reforms that align party operations with the expectations of the Nigerian electorate
