The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has approved a revised timetable and schedule of activities for the 2027 General Election following adjustments introduced under the newly enacted Electoral Act, 2026.
The Commission had previously scheduled the Presidential and National Assembly Elections for 20 February 2027 and the Governorship and State Houses of Assembly Elections for 6 March 2027 under the repealed Electoral Act, 2022.
However, changes to statutory timelines governing pre-election and electoral processes necessitated a review to ensure full compliance with the current legal framework.
New Election Dates
INEC has resolved as follows:
*Presidential and National Assembly Elections: Saturday, 16 January 2027
*Governorship and State Houses of Assembly Elections: Saturday, 6 February 2027
Key Milestones Under the revised schedule:
Party primaries, including the resolution of disputes, will run from 23 April to 30 May 2026.
*Campaigns for Presidential and National Assembly elections will commence on 19 August 2026.
*Campaigns for Governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections will begin on 9 September 2026.
In line with statutory provisions, all campaigns must end 24 hours before Election Day.
INEC emphasized that political parties are required to strictly comply with the approved timelines, warning that the Commission will enforce adherence to the law.
The updated timetable has been published on INEC’s official website and other designated communication platforms.
Osun Governorship Election RescheduledINEC also announced that the Osun State Governorship Election, earlier slated for 8 August 2026, has been moved to Saturday, 15 August 2026.
The Commission noted that while some preparatory activities for the governorship elections in Ekiti State and Osun have already been completed, outstanding processes will proceed in strict compliance with the Electoral Act, 2026.
INEC affirmed that the revised dates are consistent with the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and prevailing electoral laws, calling on all stakeholders to collaborate in delivering peaceful, credible, and inclusive elections that reflect the will of the Nigerian electorate.
Written by Taoreed Abdullahi