September 11, 2022.
The European Union (EU) has earmarked 39 million euros (N17.94 billion) to conduct and promote a transparent, credible and inclusive 2023 general elections in Nigeria.
The EU five-year support project, was for Democratic Governance in Nigeria (EU-SDGN) to foster democratic pluralism and transparent electoral process.
EU’s Ambassador to Nigeria and the ECOWAS, Samuela Isopi, stated, yesterday (Sunday), in Maiduguri that ahead of the general elections, Nigeria is at a pivotal moment that allows the country to take bold steps for credible elections.
According to her, the steps are to consolidate democracy to strengthen the electoral process in the country.
“This electoral project is funded under the EU’s Neighbourhood Development and International Cooperation Instrument,” she said, adding that it would focus on six priority areas identified by the Nigerian government.
She said the priority areas include the improvement on the quality of electoral administration and strengthening capacities for legislative and judicial reforms.
The reforms, she noted are in compliance with democratic principles and standards.
Besides the reforms, she added that the democratic principles will would dwell on enhancing pluralism, internal democracy and equality of opportunity in the political parties and party system.
“Media empowerment through the promotion of fair and ethical coverage of the electoral process,” she said, noting that it would be part of the project’s priorities, as well as combating hate speech and disinformation.
She said the funds would be invested in civil society organisations to demand greater transparency and accountability in the electoral and decision making process.
“All must contribute, from the key institutions to the political parties and candidates, from media to civil society,” she insisted.
