Plateau State is set to host the 13th National Delegates Conference of the Forum of State Independent Electoral Commissions of Nigeria, focusing on the challenges and opportunities of local government elections

[dropcap]P[/dropcap]lateau State is gearing up to host the 13th National Delegates Conference of the Forum of State Independent Electoral Commissions of Nigeria.

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The Chairman of the Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission, Mr Plangji Cishak, who disclosed this at a press conference in Jos on Tuesday, said the national delegates conference, scheduled to take place from May 21st to 23rd, 2025, in Jos, will bring together delegates from the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory.

According to him, the theme of the conference is “Local Government Elections in Nigeria: Issues, Challenges and Opportunities.”

“It is a theme that calls for sober reflection, informed debate, and actionable outcomes.

“The event is expected to attract no fewer than 304 delegates drawn from the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory.

These will include Chairmen, Commissioners, and Secretaries of various State Independent Electoral Commissions.

The opening ceremony will be held under the distinguished chairmanship of His Majesty, the Gbong Gwom Jos, Da Jacob Gyang Buba, whose leadership continues to serve as a source of institutional wisdom and moral direction.

“In addition, we are expecting three serving governors, representatives of the Forum of Nigerian House of Assembly Speakers, and members of the National Assembly—particularly the Senate and House Committees on Electoral Matters.

Their participation underscores the national significance of the issues on the table and reflects a shared commitment to strengthening local governance through credible elections,” the chairman said.

It is a theme that calls for sober reflection, informed debate, and actionable outcomes.

Cishak expressed confidence in Plateau’s preparedness to host the event. He highlighted PLASIEC’s efforts to strengthen its institutional capacity, including investing in infrastructure and equipping its offices.

“The commission has also prioritised staff development through targeted training programs and workshops,” he stated.

The chairman urged the media to give the conference prominent coverage, emphasizing their critical role in documenting history, challenging falsehoods, and amplifying facts.

He expressed gratitude for the partnership between PLASIEC and the media, which he believes has contributed to the credibility of electoral processes in the state.

“I thank you once again for your continued partnership and service to our democracy. Plateau is ready to host the nation, and with your support, we are confident that this conference will be a turning point in our collective quest to deepen grassroots democracy in Nigeria,” he added.

Our Correspondent reports that the planned conference aims to provide a platform for learning, self-assessment, and shared growth among electoral commissions.

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It will offer an opportunity for peer review, examination of challenges, and sharing of innovations to strengthen local governance through credible elections.