## Five Lessons from Côte d’Ivoire’s 2025 Presidential Election for Nigeria Côte d’Ivoire’s 2025 presidential election presents a unique moment for Nigeria to draw valuable lessons. The election highlights the complexities of managing ethnic and social divisions, foreign interference risks, and the crucial need for electoral credibility and inclusiveness. ### Ethnic and Social Divisions in Elections Côte d’Ivoire faces deep-rooted ethnic and social fault lines that could erupt into violence if not managed properly. Efforts by the government to reduce ethnic-based voting and promote national unity have gained some ground. However, opposition parties have amplified social divisions, accusing the government of bias and manipulation, especially regarding control over the national electoral commission and social media narratives. ### Electoral Credibility and Inclusion The credibility of the electoral process remains a major concern in Côte d’Ivoire. Controversies such as the exclusion of key opposition figures and a divisive sponsorship system have fueled tensions. The country is still dealing with the aftermath of past election-related violence and struggles to ensure a peaceful transition of power. Establishing transparent, inclusive elections is vital to preventing conflict and maintaining national cohesion. ### Peacebuilding and National Reconciliation Côte d’Ivoire’s recent history underscores the importance of peacebuilding and reconciliation. Post-election violence in 2010-2011, which caused around 3,000 deaths, still shapes political dynamics. The government’s commitment to improving living conditions and promoting social cohesion is critical to breaking cycles of violence associated with elections. ### Regional Stability and International Role Côte d’Ivoire plays a significant role in West African stability. Its election outcome is closely watched by regional actors due to potential spillover effects. Managing foreign interference and misinformation is crucial not only for domestic peace but for the wider region’s security. ### Inspiration for Nigeria’s Electoral Reforms As Nigeria approaches its 2027 elections, the challenges Côte d’Ivoire is encountering serve as a cautionary tale. Nigeria must prioritize electoral integrity, manage ethnic and social fractures carefully, and focus on peaceful conflict resolution and inclusiveness to avoid violent outcomes. Learning from Côte d’Ivoire’s experience could improve Nigeria’s prospects for democratic consolidation. > "The upcoming elections in Côte d’Ivoire reveal the potential for violence if fault lines and electoral trust are not addressed, lessons crucial for Nigeria’s reforms." — Samuel Ngambo, president of the Center for the Promotion of Human Rights and Development in Africa. *** Author’s summary: Côte d’Ivoire's 2025 election reveals urgent lessons in managing social divisions, ensuring electoral credibility, and fostering peace—lessons Nigeria must heed ahead of its 2027 polls for stability.

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Business Day — 2025-11-29