(DDM) – The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially announced the timetable for Nigeria’s 2027 general elections, with key dates now set for early next year.
INEC’s Chairman, Joash O. Amupitan, SAN, made the announcement on Friday in Abuja while launching the Notice of Election as well as the official Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the polls.
According to the released schedule, voting for the Presidential and National Assembly elections will hold on Saturday, February 20, 2027.
Subsequently, the Governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections will take place on Saturday, March 6, 2027.
Amupitan said the fixed dates reflect the commission’s commitment to conducting transparent, credible, and lawful elections throughout the federation.
He explained that early publication of the timetable is intended to give political parties, candidates, civil society organisations, and voters sufficient time to prepare for their respective roles in the process.
The 2027 election cycle marks another critical moment in Nigeria’s democratic journey, with a growing clamor from various stakeholders demanding reforms in electoral laws, especially around processes like electronic transmission of results, voter registration updates, and ballot security.
INEC’s announcement comes amid heightened public debates and protests over the recently amended Electoral Act, which critics say contains loopholes that could weaken the integrity of election outcomes if not adequately addressed.
Supporters of the reforms argue that the timetable gives the commission and political parties a clear roadmap to follow as they gear up for campaigns, primaries, and logistics planning.
Observers note that setting early dates can help reduce uncertainties and ensure a structured approach to election preparations.
Political parties are expected to commence internal primaries and nomination processes following the publication of the timetable, with deadlines for submitting candidates’ names to INEC outlined in the schedule.
The Presidential and National Assembly elections on February 20 will elect the country’s next president and members of the Senate and House of Representatives.
The March 6 polls will determine 36 state governors and members of the 36 State Houses of Assembly.
Amupitan has repeatedly emphasised that adherence to the timetable is essential to avoid any disruptions in the electoral calendar.
He urged all political stakeholders to comply with the timeline and cooperate with INEC in meeting statutory deadlines.
Civil society organisations have welcomed the clarity, but some continue to push for amendments that would strengthen fairness and transparency ahead of the polls.
INEC’s clear schedule now provides room for strategic planning by political actors and increased civic awareness among voters nationwide.
As Nigeria approaches the 2027 election season, the conduct of the polls will likely dominate public discourse, with stakeholders watching closely to ensure that the exercise meets expected standards of credibility and inclusiveness.
