Former chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Attahiru Jega, has stated that the collaboration between domestic and International stakeholders will be vital to consolidating democracy in Nigeria moving forward.
He made the remarks at the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) sixth annual Charles T. Manatt Democracy Awards Dinner at the Four Seasons Hotel in Washington, D.C on September 29.
The Charles T. Manatt Democracy Awards recognize the exceptional work of individuals who demonstrate an unwavering commitment to freedom and democracy
IFES held that Nigeria’s 2015 elections were a watershed moment for democracy in the country and Africa, as the largest country by population with the biggest economy on the continent experienced its first democratic transfer of power.
It noted Professor Attahiru Jega, the Chairman of the INEC at the time of the elections, was vital in ensuring a credible and transparent electoral process.
IFES’ media partner for the dinner Voice of America detailed the challenges Professor Jega and INEC faced in a video presented during the ceremony.
Welcoming him to the stage as the international recipient of the 2015 Democracy Award, President Sweeney asserted, “Professor Jega embodies what we hope for from every election administrator.”
In his remarks, the former INEC boss said, “IFES has done a commendable job in supporting and strengthening the INEC and we hope that others in the international community follow this example and join hands to contribute to democratic consolidation in Nigeria,”
As stated by Jega, “free and fair elections are only the starting point. For democracy to truly flourish, credible elections must result in improved democratic governance and socioeconomic development. That is the hope of so many Nigerians.”
Professor Jega’s remarks were met with a standing ovation as the 2015 Charles T. Manatt Democracy Awards Dinner drew to a close.
IFES presents the awards annually to three individuals — one Republican, one Democrat and one member of the international community — who embody the character and spirit of former U.S. Ambassador and IFES Board of Directors Chairman Charles T. Manatt and work tirelessly to help ensure that citizens around the world are able to have a voice in the way they are governed.
This year's awardees included former Chairman Attahiru Jega of Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), House Democratic Leader cy Pelosi (D-Calif.) and Congressman Ed Royce (R-Calif.). NBC’s Meet the Press host Chuck Todd emceed the awards dinner, which was co-chaired by IFES Board Director and Baker & Hostetler LLP Partner Ambassador Tom McDonald and Manatt, Phelps & Phillips LLP Partner June L. DeHart.