In a bid to strengthen Nigeria’s democratic processes, the University of Lagos (UNILAG), through its Human Resources Development Centre (HRDC), has unveiled a nine-month professional diploma programme in Election Monitoring and Administration.
The programme, developed in collaboration with The Praxis College of Engineering and Technology, Abuja, is set to commence on October 12, 2025, according to Dr. Ben Onwudinjo, Programme Coordinator, who made the announcement at a press conference in Abuja on Friday.
Dr. Onwudinjo explained that the initiative is designed to build a corps of skilled professionals equipped to enhance the credibility and transparency of Nigeria’s elections, beginning with the 2027 general elections.
“The programme is open to technical staff, politicians, party agents, human rights activists, NGOs, civil society organisations, and aides to political officeholders,” he said. “It will prepare participants to serve as observers, consultants, and administrators in future elections.”
He noted that the diploma course would feature seasoned facilitators drawn from the United Nations, international and local election monitoring bodies, academia, and the Nigerian Bar Association, representing all six geopolitical zones of the country.
Participants will engage in online lectures every Saturday, complemented by assignments, field trips, term papers, and computer-based examinations over two semesters. Successful candidates will receive a Professional Diploma Certificate in Election Monitoring and Administration from UNILAG, qualifying them to participate in election observation and related consultancy roles.
Onwudinjo disclosed that letters had been sent to all state governors, senators, ministers, and members of national and state assemblies, inviting them to nominate candidates for enrolment. Each governor may nominate up to 100 candidates, senators 20, House of Representatives members 10, and state assembly members four.
He added that private citizens, political stakeholders, and organisations could also sponsor interested candidates.
Applicants are advised to visit hrdc.unilag.edu.ng, click on “Admission into 2025/2026 Session,” and follow the listed application procedures.
Dr. Onwudinjo emphasized that participation in the maiden edition of the programme will be among the criteria for the selection of technical staff for the 2027 general elections and subsequent polls.
“Our goal is to build a pool of competent, ethical professionals who will help ensure that future elections in Nigeria meet international standards of transparency and fairness,” he stated.
