The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced plans to introduce diaspora voting, marking a significant shift in Nigeria’s electoral process. This proposal is part of a broad range of reforms aimed at improving the country’s electoral system following lessons learned from the 2023 general elections and subsequent off-cycle polls.
INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, revealed this development during a meeting with Resident Electoral Commissioners in Abuja on Thursday. He emphasized the commission’s commitment to ensuring that Nigerians abroad can actively participate in shaping the country’s democratic future.
“For too long, millions of Nigerians living outside the country have been excluded from the voting process, despite their contributions to the nation’s development. We are now working to make diaspora voting a reality,” Yakubu stated.
The plan would allow Nigerians residing abroad to vote in future elections, a move that aligns Nigeria with other countries that have already implemented diaspora voting mechanisms. INEC also aims to enable early voting for essential personnel, including INEC staff and security officials, who often cannot vote on election day due to their duties.
In addition to diaspora voting, the commission is considering replacing the Permanent Voter Card (PVC) system with computer-generated slips or downloadable voter credentials. According to Yakubu, this would reduce costs and eliminate issues such as voter card buying, a practice used to manipulate elections.
“Those with PVCs can still use them, but going forward, voters may be able to download their accreditation slips directly from INEC’s website. This will simplify the process and enhance voter accessibility,” Yakubu added.
To bring these proposals to life, INEC will soon present them to the National Assembly for legislative amendments. The commission also plans to collaborate with various stakeholders, including civil society organizations and security agencies, to ensure the success of these reforms.
Yakubu underscored the importance of these measures, stating that diaspora voting would not only enhance inclusivity but also strengthen Nigeria’s democratic process by involving citizens living abroad in critical decision-making.
For the Nigerian diaspora, these proposed reforms are a long-awaited opportunity to engage in the electoral process. Many have expressed frustration over their inability to vote in past elections, despite their financial contributions and influence on Nigeria's economy and society
With this development, INEC is taking a crucial step toward recognizing the political rights of Nigerians abroad. While challenges such as logistical issues and security concerns may arise, the commission’s determination signals a new era of electoral inclusivity.
The full details of the reforms, captured in a 524-page report, will soon be made publicly available, INEC said. As these plans move forward, the Nigerian diaspora community will be watching closely, hopeful that their voices will finally count at the ballot box.
Comments