INEC seeks prompt release of outstanding funds for 2027 elections
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has urged the Federal Government to urgently release outstanding budgetary allocations to enable it complete preparations for the 2027 general elections. INEC…
INEC's preparations for general elections typically begin years in advance, covering voter register updates, procurement of sensitive materials like permanent voter cards and smart card readers, recruitment and training of ad hoc staff, and logistics for a country with over 176,000 polling units. These activities are funded through budgetary allocations from the Federal Government, and the commission has in past election cycles flagged delays in fund releases as a threat to its planning timelines, including the rollout of new technology and the delimitation or review of polling units.
Both Daily Trust and Punch report that INEC is calling on the Federal Government to promptly release outstanding funds to support preparations for the 2027 general elections, framing the request as necessary for smooth and timely execution of its electoral calendar. Neither report specifies the exact amount still owed, the portion of the budget already disbursed, or a timeline for when the funds are expected to be released — details likely to emerge as the National Assembly and the Presidency respond to the commission's appeal.