The Human Resources Development Centre (HRDC) at the University of Lagos (UNILAG), in collaboration with The Praxis College of Engineering and Technology, Abuja, has introduced a nine-month Professional Diploma in Election Monitoring and Administration. Announced by Programme Coordinator Dr. Ben Onwudinjo during a press conference in Abuja on Friday, the programme aims to enhance the credibility and transparency of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.Set to commence on October 12, 2025, the part-time course will train technical staff, politicians, party agents, human rights activists, NGOs, CSOs, and aides to governors, ministers, and lawmakers. Onwudinjo emphasized that the initiative, aligned with UNILAG’s academic excellence, will equip participants with modern techniques and international best practices in election monitoring. Resource persons include professors from Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, United Nations experts, members of the Nigerian Bar Association, and representatives from local and international election bodies.The programme, delivered online on Saturdays with computer-based exams, includes lectures, assignments, term papers, supervised projects, and field trips over two semesters. Successful candidates will earn a UNILAG Professional Diploma Certificate, qualifying them as election observers, consultants, and public policy analysts for 2027 and beyond. Participants can access transcripts directly from UNILAG, and completion may influence selection as technical staff for future elections.Onwudinjo revealed that letters have been sent to governors, senators, and assembly members, encouraging nominations of 100, 20, 10, and four candidates, respectively, per official. Private citizens and stakeholders can also sponsor candidates. Applicants must pay partial tuition upfront and can apply via hrdc.unilag.edu.ng under the “Admission into 2025/2026 session” section.Alongside this, HRDC will offer four additional diploma courses: Anti-Corruption Management, Security and Counter-Security Management, Public Administration and Governance, and Business Administration and Entrepreneurship. Invitations have been extended to the EFCC, DSS, Armed Forces, Nigeria Police Force, and other agencies to nominate candidates.Onwudinjo underscored the programme’s role in strengthening Nigeria’s democracy, fostering skilled professionals to ensure transparent elections and advance public policy.
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