INEC Proposes N873.78 Billion Budget for 2027 General Elections

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has presented a proposed budget of N873.78 billion for the conduct of the 2027 general elections, marking the formal commencement of planning for the nationwide exercise.

INEC Chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan, unveiled the proposal on Thursday during a joint session of the Senate and House of Representatives Committee on Electoral Matters at the National Assembly.

He emphasised that electoral preparations are already in motion, noting that the law requires election funding to be approved at least 360 days prior to polling day. According to him, early budgetary approval is essential to ensure thorough planning and the seamless execution of the polls. “Early appropriation is necessary to guarantee adequate planning and seamless execution of the elections,” he told lawmakers.

A breakdown of the proposed budget indicates that election operations will account for the largest share, with N375.75 billion allocated for direct voting activities. Administrative expenses are projected at N92.31 billion, while N209.21 billion is set aside for election technology, reflecting the Commission’s continued commitment to tech-driven electoral processes.

INEC has also proposed N154.90 billion for capital projects. Together, these four core components bring the subtotal to N832.17 billion. An additional N41.61 billion has been allocated for other related expenditures, bringing the total budget request to N873.78 billion.

Professor Amupitan noted that the proposed capital allocation for 2027 is higher than in previous election cycles, explaining that several capital items previously omitted have now been consolidated into the current proposal. He added that comprehensive details of the planned expenditure including specific activities and cost components have been submitted to the National Assembly for review.