(DDM) – The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced a revised timetable outlining key activities and deadlines for the conduct of the 2027 general elections across the country.
The updated schedule provides a comprehensive framework for political parties, candidates, and stakeholders to prepare for the electoral process.
According to the commission, the Continuous Voter Registration exercise is currently ongoing and will continue until August 30, 2026.
This phase is expected to allow eligible Nigerians who have not yet registered to obtain their voter credentials ahead of the elections.
INEC also fixed April 1 to April 21, 2026, for the submission of lists of registered party members by political parties through its online portal.
Party primaries are scheduled to take place between April 23 and May 30, 2026, during which parties will select their candidates for various elective positions.
The commission further stated that political parties must submit nomination forms for presidential and National Assembly elections between June 27 and July 11, 2026.
For governorship and State Assembly elections, submission of nomination forms is expected to occur between July 18 and August 8, 2026.
Campaign activities for presidential and National Assembly elections are slated to begin on August 19, 2026, and will end on January 14, 2027.
Governorship and State Assembly campaigns are scheduled to commence on September 9, 2026, and conclude on February 4, 2027.
INEC emphasised that all political campaigns must end at least 24 hours before the respective election dates.
The commission will publish the final list of candidates for presidential and National Assembly elections on September 12, 2026.
The list of candidates for governorship and State Assembly elections will be released on October 10, 2026.
In preparation for the elections, the register of voters will be displayed nationwide between December 15 and December 21, 2026, for public verification.
The presidential and National Assembly elections are scheduled to be conducted on January 16, 2027.
Governorship and State Assembly elections will follow on February 6, 2027.
The timetable is expected to guide all electoral stakeholders and ensure adequate preparation for a smooth and credible electoral process.
Political analysts say early release of the schedule provides parties with sufficient time to organise primaries and resolve internal disputes.
Observers also note that adherence to the timetable will be critical in maintaining transparency and public confidence in the electoral system.
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