Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Thursday, 9th October 2025, hosted a farewell dinner in honour of the visiting delegation from the National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) and the Coalition of Ethiopian Civil Society Organisations for Elections (CECOE), marking the conclusion of a week-long study visit and exchange programme in Abuja. This was contained in the INEC Bulletin of October 10, 2025.
The event, which held in a convivial atmosphere, was attended by National Commissioners, Directors, senior officials of the Commission, and representatives of development partners. It provided a relaxed setting for both delegations to unwind after several days of intensive technical engagements and discussions on various aspects of election administration. The evening featured goodwill messages, the exchange of souvenirs, as well as music, dance, and entertainment reflective of Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage.
In her welcome remarks, the Acting Chairman of INEC, Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu, expressed appreciation to the Ethiopian delegation for selecting Nigeria as their preferred destination for the study tour, describing the engagement as mutually beneficial.
“I want to thank you all for coming to our country,” she said. “Abuja is a beautiful city surrounded by hills and greenery, and I hope you will find time to visit again. We share many similarities as large, diverse nations committed to deepening democracy. Though we have unique experiences, we are all learning from one another.”
Mrs. Agbamuche-Mbu commended the immediate past INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, for his dedication to strengthening the Commission through technological innovation and institutional reform. She expressed optimism that the lessons shared during the visit would further support the growth and independence of Ethiopia’s electoral processes.
“We hope that all you have learnt here will contribute positively to the advancement of democratic practices in your country,” she said. “Please enjoy the evening, the music, and our cuisine. Abuja is full of life and beauty.”
Responding on behalf of the visiting delegation, the Deputy Chairman of NEBE, Mr. Tesfaye Niwai, conveyed his gratitude to INEC for the warm reception and fruitful engagements during the study visit.
“This is my first time in Nigeria, and it has been an exceptional experience,” he stated. “Nigeria’s diversity, energy, and democratic strength are inspiring. Our expectations have been fully met. We have gained valuable insights into INEC’s structure, its legal framework, and its strategies for inclusivity, planning, and stakeholder engagement.”
He noted that the lessons learned from the visit would inform ongoing reforms in Ethiopia’s electoral system and strengthen collaboration between both institutions.
Earlier, the Special Adviser to the Immediate Past INEC Chairman, Prof. M.J. Kuna, welcomed guests to the dinner and reflected on the significance of the exchange. He described the week-long engagement as productive and insightful, noting that both sides had shared ideas, documents, and best practices on voter registration, election planning, and managing elections in complex environments.
“This visit has deepened the partnership between the Independent National Electoral Commission and the National Election Board of Ethiopia,” Prof. Kuna said. “We are confident that this will be the beginning of sustained cooperation between our institutions.”
Delivering the vote of thanks, the Secretary to the Commission, Mrs. Rose Oriaran-Anthony, expressed appreciation to all who contributed to the success of the visit and the dinner. She paid tribute to Prof. Mahmood Yakubu for initiating the engagement prior to the end of his tenure and commended the Acting Chairman for her leadership in sustaining it.
“Our Acting Chairman may appear gentle, but she is strong and determined,” she said to warm laughter from the audience. “Her commitment ensured that this visit was well-coordinated and impactful.”
Mrs. Oriaran-Anthony also acknowledged the contributions of Directors, staff, and members of the coordinating team for their dedication and professionalism throughout the visit. She extended appreciation to GIZ Nigeria and Ethiopia for their support and facilitation of the study tour.
“We are proud to have hosted you,” she said. “Nigeria’s electoral process is complex but resilient, and we hope the lessons shared will add value to your work in Ethiopia. We also hope you enjoyed the warmth of our people, the richness of our culture, and the variety of our cuisine.”
The highlight of the evening was the presentation of souvenirs and gifts between the two institutions, symbolising mutual respect and the strengthening of bilateral ties in electoral cooperation. Guests and officials exchanged warm handshakes and photographs to commemorate the occasion.
The evening concluded with light music, dance, and informal interactions among participants, underscoring the cordial relationship between INEC and NEBE.
The farewell dinner not only marked the end of a successful study mission but also reaffirmed the shared commitment of both electoral bodies to continuous learning, institutional development, and the promotion of credible democratic processes across Africa.
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