The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has submitted a proposed budget of 873.78 billion naira to the National Assembly for the conduct of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections. The request, presented by INEC Chairman Professor Joash Amupitan before a joint parliamentary committee, underscores the commission’s need for early legislative approval to facilitate adequate planning.
Amupitan told lawmakers that preparations for the polls are already underway, citing the legal requirement that election funds be secured at least 360 days before voting commences. He stressed that timely appropriation is critical for “adequate planning and seamless execution” of the nationwide exercise.
The proposed budget allocates funds across four primary categories. The largest share, 375.75 billion naira, is designated for direct election operations, covering activities directly related to polling day. Technology, a cornerstone of modern Nigerian elections, receives 209.21 billion naira. Administrative costs are budgeted at 92.31 billion naira, while capital expenditures—including procurement of equipment and infrastructure—are proposed at 154.90 billion naira. These four components total 832.17 billion naira. An additional 41.61 billion naira is reserved for other related expenses, completing the total request.
The chairman highlighted that the capital allocation for 2027 is notably higher than in previous election cycles. He explained that several capital items, which were historically underfunded or fragmented, have now been consolidated into a single, comprehensive proposal to ensure proper execution.
For transparency, Amupitan provided budgetary codes for each segment: election operations (codes 230101–230601), administration (230703–230812), technology (230707–230811), capital projects (230198–320201), and miscellaneous expenses (230725). He confirmed that a detailed document outlining specific activities and itemised costs has been submitted to the National Assembly.
The presentation marks the formal beginning of the legislative budget process for the 2027 elections. The proposal now awaits consideration and approval by the National Assembly. The outcome will signal the government’s commitment to providing INEC with the financial resources required to meet constitutional timelines and organisational demands for a credible electoral process. The commission’s emphasis on early funding reflects lessons from past election cycles, where logistical and financial constraints have often impacted preparations.
