In this engaging conversation, we looked into what it truly means to guard the ballot and rebuild trust in Nigeria’s democracy.

Coming off the back of a new change in leadership at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and at a time when public confidence in institutions like INEC is under strain as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 elections, Mukhtar Modibbo Halilu makes a compelling case for citizen-led accountability, open governance, and the role of young people in restoring democratic integrity.

From the potential impact of INEC’s leadership transition to how technology and data are reshaping civic participation, this episode explores how Nigerians can reclaim trust in the system, one act of citizenship at a time.

Joining us is Mukhtar Modibbo Halilu, one of Nigeria’s most passionate voices on civic engagement and governance accountability. A governance, transparency, and accountability expert, Mukhtar currently leads Follow The Money, Africa’s largest citizen-led social accountability movement. His work spans grassroots mobilisation, open government advocacy, and policy dialogue across 36 Nigerian states and 10 African countries.

A former Youth Leader for the Global Partnership for Education (GPE), Mukhtar has spent over a decade working with marginalised communities to promote transparency, strengthen public participation, and improve access to essential services. His leadership at Follow The Money has mobilised over 20,000 young Africans to track public funds, hold leaders accountable, and demand better governance from the ground up.

Our conversation covers:

• What inspired Mukhtar’s journey into governance, transparency, and civic engagement
  

• Why INEC’s leadership transition is a defining moment for Nigeria’s democracy
  

• The reforms Nigeria needs before the 2027 elections to ensure credible polls
  

• Ways civil society and INEC can work together to promote transparency
  

• What the next generation of reformers must do differently to shape Nigeria’s future
  

Whether you are a first-time voter, a civic leader, or someone who believes in a better Nigeria, “Guarding the Ballot and Rebuilding Trust in Nigeria’s Democracy” challenges you to see your role in strengthening the system, because protecting democracy begins with empowering its people.

 Listen now to discover how trust, transparency, and active citizenship can redefine Nigeria’s democratic future.

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