Former INEC Commissioner Mike Igini to Chair Bel Dialogue 2026 in Asaba
Bel Media Consult Limited has announced the second edition of its flagship public policy platform, Bel Dialogue.
The event will hold on Thursday, 30 July 2026. The venue is David’s Event Centre, Anwai Road, Asaba. It will begin at 11:00 a.m.
The organisation announced this in a press statement on Tuesday, which was made available to Ejes Gist News.
Former Resident Electoral Commissioner of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Hon. Mike Igini, Esq., has been named Chairman of the Occasion.
Bel Media Consult Limited is the publisher of Ndokwa Reporters and The Brief.
The 2026 edition is themed: “Democracy That Works: Bridging the Gap Between Votes, Results and Institutional Accountability.”
The organisers described the theme as timely. They said it reflects the growing need to strengthen democratic institutions. It also speaks to the importance of accountable governance.
A key goal is restoring public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral and governance processes.
What Is Bel Dialogue?
Bel Dialogue is an annual, non-partisan public engagement initiative. It was established to promote informed conversations on governance, public policy, leadership, and national development.
The platform brings together diverse voices. These include policymakers, professionals, civil society actors, academics, traditional institutions, the media, and citizens.
The objective is to interrogate critical national issues. Participants then advance practical solutions.
The forthcoming edition follows a successful maiden event. That first dialogue established the platform as a credible forum for robust civic engagement.
This year’s event promises a more expansive conversation. It is designed to stimulate ideas that can strengthen democracy. It also aims to improve institutional performance in Nigeria.
Why Mike Igini
The announcement was made on behalf of the Chairman of the Advisory Board, Pharm. Paul O. Enebeli.
The Secretary of the Advisory Board and Executive Director of Bel Dialogue, Emmanuel Enebeli, signed the statement.
Mr Enebeli said the appointment of Hon. Mike Igini reflects the organisers’ commitment to excellence. He said it also demonstrates their dedication to credibility and democratic values.
According to him, Mr Igini’s record speaks for itself. His career in electoral administration and constitutional democracy makes him eminently qualified.
He noted that Mr Igini earned national acclaim during his time at INEC. He conducted elections that reflected the genuine will of the electorate. He maintained the highest standards of transparency, impartiality, and professionalism.
“His unwavering commitment to electoral integrity, the rule of law, and democratic accountability has earned him widespread respect across Nigeria and beyond,” Mr Enebeli stated.
He added: “His wealth of experience and principled leadership make him an ideal Chairman for a dialogue focused on strengthening democratic institutions and ensuring that the people’s votes truly count.”
Bel Dialogue 2026 is Not a Conventional Lecture
Mr Enebeli explained that Bel Dialogue is different from the usual lecture format. It is designed as a participatory platform.
Experts, stakeholders, and members of the public will engage in frank discussions. The focus will be on issues affecting governance and national development. The conversations will be solution-oriented.
He further disclosed that arrangements are in the final stages. He described the event as one of the most significant public policy conversations in Delta State this year.
The names of the moderator, discussants, and other distinguished participants will be announced in the coming days.
Call to Participate
Mr Enebeli called on a broad range of stakeholders to attend. He listed public office holders, legislators, political leaders, and professionals.
He also invited members of the academic community and civil society organisations. Traditional rulers, youth groups, and the organised private sector were also mentioned. The media and other interested Nigerians are welcome.
“Bel Dialogue is driven by the conviction that democracy can only thrive when institutions are strong, elections are credible, leaders are accountable, and citizens remain actively engaged in the democratic process,” he said.
He added: “We believe this year’s conversation will make meaningful contributions to the ongoing national discourse on democratic governance and institutional reforms.”
