The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has released a revised timetable and schedule of activities for the 2027 General Elections, setting out key dates for party primaries, nomination of candidates, campaigns and the conduct of the polls.
According to the timetable, political parties will conduct their primaries between 23 April and 30 May 2026 to nominate candidates for the elections.
The commission fixed 27 June to 11 July 2026 for the submission of nomination forms for presidential and National Assembly candidates, while governorship and State Houses of Assembly candidates are to submit their forms between 18 July and 8 August 2026 through the INEC nomination portal.
INEC said campaigns for the presidential and National Assembly elections will commence on 19 August 2026 and end on 14 January 2027, while campaigns for governorship and State Assembly elections will run from 9 September 2026 to 4 February 2027.
The commission also scheduled the publication of the final list of nominated candidates for 12 September 2026 for the presidential and National Assembly elections and 10 October 2026 for governorship and State Assembly elections.
Under the timetable, the presidential and National Assembly elections will hold on 16 January 2027, while governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections are slated for 6 February 2027.
INEC said the revised timetable aligns with the provisions of the Electoral Act 2026, which requires election campaigns to begin 150 days before polling day and end 24 hours before voting.
The commission urged political parties, candidates and other stakeholders to adhere strictly to the timetable and relevant provisions of the Electoral Act to ensure a credible and orderly electoral process.
