The Diplomatic Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DICAN), in collaboration with the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Nigeria, will host a high-level International Stakeholders Engagement Forum on Anti-Corruption, Party Building and Democratic Governance as part of ongoing efforts to promote informed dialogue on democratic consolidation, institutional accountability, political party development and national governance ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.
‎‎The forum, themed “Nigeria’s 2027 Poll: Promoting Party Organisation, Discipline and Anti-Corruption Reforms: Lessons from Xi Jinping Thought,” is scheduled to hold on Wednesday, 18 November 2026, at the Rotunda Hall, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja.
‎‎The event will bring together an exceptional gathering of senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, heads of anti-corruption agencies, political party leaders, civil society organisations and policymakers. Others include; academics, development partners, youth representatives and media practitioners for robust discussions on strengthening democratic institutions and promoting accountable governance.
‎‎Expected participants include the Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), the Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
‎‎Also expected are; the distinguished members of the National Assembly, senior government policymakers, eminent scholars, university administrators, political party leaders, civil society advocates, governance experts, development partners and members of the diplomatic community.
‎‎The Forum will also feature a Special Remark by His Excellency Ambassador Yu Dunhai, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People’s Republic of China to the Federal Republic of Nigeria, alongside other prominent national and international personalities.
‎‎According to the Chairman of DICAN, Idehai Frederick, the engagement is conceived as a strategic platform for examining practical approaches to strengthening political institutions, promoting internal party democracy, advancing anti-corruption reforms and fostering responsible leadership as Nigeria prepares for another critical electoral cycle.
‎‎”Nigeria’s democratic future depends not only on the conduct of elections but also on the strength of the institutions that sustain democracy. Strong political parties, accountable leadership, effective anti-corruption mechanisms and active citizen participation are essential pillars for democratic stability and national development,” Frederick noted.
‎‎Frederick said the Forum will facilitate constructive exchanges among policymakers, political leaders, civil society actors, academics and development practitioners on lessons that can be adapted to strengthen governance frameworks and institutional effectiveness in Nigeria.
‎‎”As a professional body covering diplomacy, governance and international affairs, DICAN believes that meaningful dialogue among stakeholders remains one of the most effective tools for addressing national challenges.
‎‎”This Forum will provide an opportunity to share experiences, examine best practices and develop practical recommendations capable of strengthening democratic governance and public trust in institutions,” Frederick said.
‎‎He further stated that the participation of anti-corruption agencies, political parties, scholars, civil society leaders and diplomatic representatives underscores the importance of collective action in advancing transparency, accountability and sustainable development.
‎‎”The journey towards credible elections in 2027 begins with the work we do today to strengthen institutions, promote political discipline, encourage issue-based engagement and reinforce the culture of accountability.
‎‎”Through this Forum, we aim to encourage thoughtful conversations that contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s democratic progress and national cohesion,” he said.
‎‎The DICAN Chairman expressed appreciation to the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Nigeria, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other strategic partners for supporting the initiative and reaffirmed the Association’s commitment to promoting informed public discourse on issues affecting governance, diplomacy, international cooperation and national development.
‎‎The Association also called on stakeholders across government, political parties, academia, civil society, development institutions and the diplomatic community to actively participate in the engagement and contribute to shaping recommendations that will support democratic consolidation, institutional reforms and sustainable national development.