By CHRISTIANA LOT, Jos –
Plateau State is set to host the 13th National Delegates Conference of the Forum of State Independent Electoral Commissions of Nigeria (FOSIECON), bringing together over 300 participants to deliberate on key issues shaping local government elections across the country.
The Chairman of the Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC), Mr. Plangji Daniel Cishak, made the announcement during a press briefing held in Jos on Tuesday, expressing the state’s readiness to welcome delegates from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory for the three-day conference scheduled from May 21 to 23.
He said the event will hold under the theme “Local Government Elections in Nigeria: Issues, Challenges and Opportunities” and will feature deliberations aimed at fostering electoral reforms, peer learning, and institutional strengthening among State Independent Electoral Commissions (SIECs).
“We expect to welcome no fewer than 304 delegates drawn from across the country, including Chairmen, Commissioners, and Secretaries of various SIECs.
“This conference is not just a routine gathering. It is a platform for self-assessment, knowledge-sharing, and shaping a national conversation on credible grassroots elections.”He stated.
Cishak noted that the opening ceremony will be chaired by the Gbong Gwom Jos, His Majesty Da Jacob Gyang Buba, and is expected to attract high-level national attention with the anticipated participation of three serving governors, representatives of the Forum of Nigerian House of Assembly Speakers, and members of the National Assembly Committees on Electoral Matters.
He acknowledged the support of DAI International Development in advancing civic engagement and electoral reforms and commended the media for their past contributions, particularly during the October 9, 2024 local government elections, which he described as “peaceful, free, fair and credible.”
He emphasized that Plateau’s success in hosting the last LG polls was a testament to what SIECs can achieve when properly empowered, noting that the upcoming conference presents an opportunity to further strengthen the foundation for credible elections nationwide.
He also urged the media to give the event the prominence it deserves, stressing their crucial role in documenting democratic processes, challenging falsehoods, and amplifying factual public discourse.
“Plateau is ready to host the nation. With your support, we are confident that this conference will be a turning point in our collective quest to deepen grassroots democracy in Nigeria.” Cishak emphasized.
