The Political Affairs, Elections, Democracy and Good Governance of the West African Civil Society Forum (WACSOF) Nigeria National Platform has sought the support and partnership of the West African Organization Regional Secretariat in order to improve on the processes and procedures of their activities.
The Team Lead of the Thematic Group Mr. Peter Eboatu made this known during a critical meeting with Staff of WACSOF Regional Secretariat. The meeting held on Tuesday 15th November, 2022 at Area 11, Abuja the headquarter of WACSOF focused primarily on how to enhance cooperation towards a strategic plan for the Nigeria General Election 2023 Observation Project. Mr. Eboatu said that, as Nigeria prepares to hold its general election next year, the Political Affairs Thematic Group is seeking WACSOF participation as one of the accredited observers of the election. WACSOF, being an umbrella covering the civil society organizations in West Africa should be on top of the trend on subjects regarding the civil society in the subregion, particularly the election in Nigeria. He disclosed that Thematic Group has drawn up a strategic work plan as operational guide as well as information document for partners and donors for the election. It is important that both parties joined hands together to strengthen the work plan.
Mr. Emmanuel Ekpo, The Secretary of the Thematic Group who was part of the delegation pointed out efforts made since the inauguration of the Political Affairs Thematic Group about four months ago. The group has held several meetings with some INEC officials and applied for WACSOF to be part of the accredited CSOs to observe the general election. He was hopeful that the application would be approved if the Regional Secretariat gave the needed support.
Responding on behalf of the Secretariat, Mimiwar Ahile, the Program Officer applauded the group for the efforts. She pledged that the Secretariat would communicate with the Executive Committee and the National Coordinator of the WACSOF Nigeria Platform for approval and best approach to support the Political Affairs Thematic Group.
