Project Management as a Governance Intervention

Elections in fragile democracies are frequently characterised by logistical breakdowns, institutional mistrust, violence and administrative inefficiencies. The Nigerian 2023 General Election reignited longstanding debates concerning electoral credibility, risk exposure and governance capacity. This paper critically evaluates the extent to which structured project management frameworks could have strengthened the integrity, transparency and operational performance of the election. Drawing on established project governance theory, including PMBOK principles, enterprise risk management frameworks and project-oriented organisational models, the study examines deficiencies in planning, stakeholder communication, resource coordination and institutional risk mitigation within the Nigerian electoral process. Comparative insights from electoral management practices in the United States, United Kingdom and Australia contextualise the analysis. The findings suggest that while elections are inherently political, their operational components resemble complex multi-stakeholder mega-projects requiring structured governance, integrated risk systems and strategic alignment. Institutionalising project management within Electoral Management Bodies (EMBs) could reduce systemic vulnerabilities, strengthen accountability and enhance public trust in democratic outcomes.