ABUJA — The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has brought forward the dates for the 2027 general elections by more than one month, announcing a major revision to its previously released timetable in compliance with the Electoral Act, 2026.
Under the new schedule, the Presidential and National Assembly elections will now hold on Saturday, January 16, 2027, instead of the earlier date of February 20, 2027.
Similarly, the Governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections have been shifted from March 6, 2027, to Saturday, February 6, 2027.
The Commission said the decision followed the repeal of the Electoral Act, 2022 and the enactment of the Electoral Act, 2026, which introduced new statutory timelines for the conduct of elections and related activities.
INEC explained that a comprehensive review of its electoral calendar became necessary to ensure that every stage of the electoral process aligns strictly with the new legal framework.
According to the Commission, the revised timetable covers all critical pre-election activities, including party primaries, submission of nomination forms, publication of candidates’ particulars, campaigns, and other statutory processes required before election day.
By moving the election dates forward, INEC said it has created a timeline that guarantees full compliance with the provisions of the Electoral Act, 2026, as well as the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended).
The electoral umpire emphasised that the adjustment was not arbitrary but the outcome of a legal and procedural review aimed at safeguarding the credibility, transparency and legality of the 2027 electoral process.
It noted that adherence to statutory timelines is critical to avoiding post-election disputes and ensuring that all political parties and stakeholders operate within clearly defined legal parameters.
INEC assured political parties, candidates and the electorate that further details of the revised schedule of activities would be made available to guide preparations for the polls.
It also urged stakeholders to familiarise themselves with the new timetable and comply strictly with all deadlines as stipulated under the Electoral Act, 2026.
The 2027 general elections will usher in a new President and members of the National Assembly, as well as governors and state lawmakers across the federation, making the revised timetable a crucial roadmap for Nigeria’s next political transition.
