In preparation for the upcoming Ondo off-cycle gubernatorial elections, the European Union Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria (EU-SDGN) facilitated a two-day workshop aimed at enhancing the communication skills of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) officials.
Held at Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort and Conference Centre in Ekiti State, the workshop brought together 40 INEC officials from Ondo State, including the Resident Electoral Commissioner, Mrs. Oluwatoyin O. Babalola, and Mr. Biodun Onikate-Amosu, the Administrative Secretary. Other participants included Heads of Departments, Assistant Directors, and Electoral Officers.
The workshop, titled “Effective Communication in the Electoral Process: Communicating with Empathy and Expertise,” focused on equipping participants with the tools needed to develop effective communication strategies, manage electoral issues, and handle crises during elections.
In his opening remarks, Mr. Lanre Arogundade, Executive Director of the International Press Centre, highlighted the importance of clear communication during the electoral process. He stated, “In an age where information spreads rapidly, it is crucial to convey messages that are accurate, timely, and accessible to all stakeholders during the electoral process.”
Facilitated by Mr. Lanre Arogundade and Dr. Monday Ashibogwu, Managing Editor at Quick News, the workshop featured key sessions on effective communication strategies, perception management during electoral crises, media monitoring, and fact-checking.
This initiative is part of ongoing efforts to build public trust and confidence in the electoral process, ensuring transparency and effective communication in the lead-up to the Ondo gubernatorial elections.
