INEC 2017-2021 Strategic Programme of Action

A Programme that outlines INEC's priorities for enhancing election credibility through technology adoption and institutional strengthening. It targets INEC staff, political parties, voters, and development partners. This aims to ensure free and fair elections in Nigeria.

What Is This Policy?

INEC's medium-term strategic plan that outlined priorities for improving the credibility, efficiency, and inclusiveness of elections in Nigeria through technology adoption, institutional strengthening, and enhanced stakeholder engagement.

Who Does It Target?

INEC management and staff Political parties and candidates Nigerian voters Development partners supporting electoral reform

What Does It Aim to Achieve?

Strengthen the capacity of INEC to conduct free, fair, and credible elections by investing in technology, training, logistics, and public trust over the five-year planning period.

Key Features

Technology Deployment: Expansion of electronic voter registration, biometric verification, and results transmission Institutional Capacity: Staff training, organizational restructuring, and infrastructure improvement Voter Education: Nationwide campaigns to improve voter awareness and participation Electoral Logistics: Improved planning and delivery of election materials to all polling units Inclusiveness: Strategies for increasing participation of women, youth, and persons with disabilities

Current Status

Rollout Stage: Completed (2017-2021) Coverage: INEC operations nationwide Lead Agency: INEC Partners: UNDP, EU, DFID, USAID, civil society organizations

How to Access

The strategic plan is publicly available. Access through the INEC website Available through development partner publications on Nigerian elections

Official Resources

Website: inecnigeria.org Contact: INEC Headquarters, Abuja

Legal Framework

The INEC Strategic Programme of Action 2017–2021 derives authority from the Independent National Electoral Commission Act and the Electoral Act, which mandate INEC to develop strategic plans. It aligns with the 1999 Constitution (Section 153 and Third Schedule), the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance, and the African Union Electoral Assistance guidelines. The UN Development Programme (UNDP) and IFES technical assistance frameworks informed the strategy.