By Muhammed Abubakar, Reporting
NIGERIA’S Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has unveiled a revised timetable for the 2027 General Election, making significant date changes to align with the newly enacted Electoral Act, 2026.
Initially, the commission had slated the Presidential and National Assembly elections for Saturday, 20th February 2027, with the Governorship and State Houses of Assembly polls to follow on Saturday, 6th March 2027, under the provisions of the 2022 Electoral Act.
However, following the passage of the Electoral Act, 2026—which repealed the previous legislation and introduced alterations to statutory timelines—INEC has been forced to realign its schedule.
In a statement released to journalists on Thursday night, National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Kudu Haruna, confirmed the revisions.
“Accordingly, the Commission has resolved as follows,” the statement read. “Presidential and National Assembly Elections will now hold on Saturday, 16th January 2027. Governorship and State Houses of Assembly Elections will now hold on Saturday, 6th February 2027.”
Key Dates for the Diary
The new schedule also sets out crucial milestones for political parties and candidates. Party primaries, including the resolution of any ensuing disputes, are now slated to run from 23rd April to 30th May 2026. Official campaigning for the presidential and national assembly seats will kick off on 19th August 2026, while gubernatorial and state assembly campaigns will begin on 9th September 2026.
“As provided by law, campaigns shall end 24 hours before Election Day,” the statement added. “Political parties are strongly advised to adhere strictly to these timelines. The Commission will enforce compliance with the law.”
Osun Election Also Affected
The reshuffle has also impacted a key off-cycle election. The Osun State Governorship election, previously fixed for Saturday, 8th August 2026, has been pushed back by one week to Saturday, 15th August 2026.
INEC noted that while some activities related to the Ekiti and Osun governorship elections have already been concluded, the remaining steps will now be implemented in line with the 2026 Electoral Act.
The commission has made the full, revised timetable available on its official website and other communication platforms. It has called on all stakeholders to co-operate to ensure “peaceful, credible and inclusive elections” that truly reflect the will of the Nigerian people.
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