ASABA – Former Resident Electoral Commissioner of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Hon. Mike Igini, has been named Chairman of the second edition of Bel Dialogue, the flagship public policy engagement platform of Bel Media Consult Limited, publishers of Ndokwa Reporters and The Brief.

The annual dialogue, scheduled for Thursday, July 30, 2026, will hold at David’s Event Centre, Anwai Road, Asaba, beginning at 11:00 a.m.

This year’s theme, “Democracy That Works: Bridging the Gap Between Votes, Results and Institutional Accountability,” is expected to stimulate high-level conversations on strengthening Nigeria’s democratic institutions, promoting transparent governance and rebuilding public confidence in the country’s electoral and governance systems.

Bel Dialogue is a non-partisan public engagement initiative established by Bel Media Consult Limited to encourage informed discussions on governance, public policy, leadership and national development. The platform brings together policymakers, political leaders, professionals, academics, civil society organisations, traditional institutions, the media and citizens to examine pressing national issues and propose practical solutions.

Organisers said the 2026 edition builds on the success of the maiden event, which earned commendation as a credible platform for constructive civic engagement and policy discourse. They noted that this year’s dialogue will feature a more interactive format designed to encourage meaningful participation and solution-driven conversations on Nigeria’s democratic future.

Announcing the appointment on behalf of the Chairman of the Bel Dialogue Advisory Board, Pharm. Paul O. Enebeli, the Secretary of the Advisory Board and Executive Director of Bel Dialogue, Emmanuel Enebeli, said the choice of Igini underscores the organisers’ commitment to integrity, credibility and democratic excellence.

He described the former electoral commissioner as one of Nigeria’s most respected voices on electoral reforms, constitutional democracy and institutional accountability.

According to Enebeli, Igini distinguished himself during his career with the Independent National Electoral Commission through his unwavering commitment to transparency, professionalism and the conduct of credible elections that reflected the genuine will of the electorate.

“His steadfast commitment to electoral integrity, the rule of law and democratic accountability has earned him widespread respect across Nigeria. His wealth of experience, courage and principled leadership make him exceptionally qualified to preside over this year’s dialogue, which seeks to deepen conversations on strengthening democratic institutions and ensuring that the people’s mandate is protected,” he said.

Enebeli explained that unlike conventional public lectures, Bel Dialogue adopts a participatory format that encourages open, evidence-based and solution-oriented discussions among experts, stakeholders and members of the public on issues affecting governance and national development.

He disclosed that preparations for the event had reached an advanced stage, adding that the names of the moderator, discussants and other distinguished participants would be announced in the coming days.

He called on elected and appointed public office holders, legislators, political actors, members of the academic community, civil society organisations, traditional rulers, youth groups, private sector leaders, media practitioners and other stakeholders to participate in the dialogue.

According to him, Bel Dialogue is founded on the belief that democracy can only flourish when institutions are strong, elections are credible, public officials are accountable and citizens remain actively engaged in the governance process.

“We believe this year’s dialogue will enrich the national conversation on democratic governance and institutional reforms while generating practical recommendations for strengthening Nigeria’s democracy,” Enebeli added.

The organisers expressed confidence that the 2026 edition of Bel Dialogue would consolidate the platform’s growing reputation as one of Delta State’s leading forums for public policy engagement and democratic discourse.