In his goodwill message, the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) Regional Director for Africa and Country Director for Nigeria, Seray Jah, expressed satisfaction with the continuity of the EOSC initiative and INEC's efforts to sustain the practice. Jah said IFES was pleased to see new personnel being brought into the system, noting that continuity and institutional knowledge were important to ensuring that the experience built over previous electoral cycles was not lost as personnel retire or move on from active service. He disclosed that the training was not originally included in the year's work plan, but that the importance of the EOSC initiative led to efforts to secure resources and continue the partnership in support of the programme. According to him, the decision to sustain the initiative demonstrates the importance attached to the EOSC by both INEC and its partners. Jah, however, cautioned participants against assuming that previous experience alone was sufficient, urging them to remain open to new knowledge and improvements in the way the EOSC operates. He said every election presented new operational realities and encouraged participants to combine the experience they had acquired over time with a willingness to learn and adapt. “I know all about it. I know everything. That may be a bit negatively distracting,” he said, urging participants to pay close attention to new developments and approaches being introduced to strengthen the EOSC. Jah also acknowledged the demanding nature of election operations, noting that personnel supporting elections could be required to work for extended periods, including sleepless nights, because the Commission would depend on them for timely and accurate information. He described election work as a form of national service because of its importance to the country, while encouraging participants to remain committed to doing their best despite the pressures and criticisms that could accompany election duties. He urged them to remain focused on their responsibilities and uphold what is right and professionally required, stressing that their contribution to the electoral process remains important to the nation. Also speaking, the National Desk Officer for EOSC, Elizabeth Atte, took participants through the objectives of the technical training for state coordinating supervisors. The session is expected to strengthen the capacity of participants to coordinate EOSC activities, understand established reporting and escalation procedures, verify information received from the field and ensure appropriate follow-up of reported incidents. The Training of Trainers therefore represents another step in INEC's preparations for the 2027 General Election, particularly in strengthening the operational information and response mechanisms required to support personnel and electoral activities across the country. The emphasis on accurate information, timely reporting, effective escalation and continuous follow-up is expected to help the Commission identify emerging challenges early and facilitate appropriate responses throughout the electoral process. @IFES1987 @IFESNigeria @UKinNigeria