The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has revised the timetable for Nigeria’s next general election, moving the Presidential and National Assembly elections to January 16, 2027.
The adjustment follows the repeal of the Electoral Act 2022 and the enactment of the Electoral Act 2026, which significantly altered the legal timelines for elections in the country.
In a statement on Thursday night in Abuja, INEC explained that the new legal framework required a complete review of the previously announced dates. Malam Mohammed Kudu Haruna, National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, said the schedule was realigned to ensure full compliance with the 2026 Act.
Under the revised timetable, Governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections are now set for Saturday, February 6, 2027, a shift from the earlier plan that had scheduled the presidential ballot for late February and state-level polls for March.
The new calendar has also affected off-cycle elections. The Osun State Governorship election, originally scheduled for August 8, 2026, will now hold on Saturday, August 15, 2026. INEC noted that while some preparations for the Ekiti and Osun polls are already completed, remaining activities will follow the provisions of the Electoral Act 2026.
Political parties have also been given clear deadlines for primaries and disputes resolution. Party primaries are set to begin April 23, 2026, and must conclude by May 30, 2026. Official campaign periods will commence on August 19, 2026 for the Presidential and National Assembly contests, and on September 9, 2026 for Governorship and State House of Assembly campaigns.
Haruna stressed the importance of discipline and adherence to the new timelines, warning that INEC would strictly enforce compliance. He also reminded parties that campaigns must end 24 hours before election days, as required by the updated law.
The Commission emphasised that the revised schedule is fully consistent with the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and the Electoral Act 2026, urging all stakeholders to cooperate in ensuring peaceful, credible, and inclusive elections that reflect the will of Nigerians.
