The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced that Nigeria will hold its next presidential and National Assembly elections on 20 February 2027.
The electoral body said governorship and state assembly elections would follow on 6 March 2027.
INEC chairman, Joash Ojo Amupitan, made the announcement at a press briefing in Abuja on Friday, describing it as a constitutional requirement and an important step in the country’s democratic process.
“These elections represent a significant milestone in our democratic journey,” he said, adding that the timetable would enable political parties, civil society groups and voters to prepare.
The elections will determine the occupants of several key offices, including, President and Vice-President of Nigeria, Members of the National Assembly, including the Senate and House of Representatives, State governors and deputy governors in most states and Members of state houses of assembly.
INEC said governorship elections would not take place in some states where electoral cycles differ due to previous court rulings.
Legal compliance and timetable
The commission said the notice of election had been issued in line with constitutional provisions and electoral law, which require advance publication of election schedules.
Professor Amupitan also addressed speculation about unofficial election timetables circulating in recent months, stressing that only INEC has the authority to fix election dates.
“For some time now, this has been a subject of speculation,” he said, warning that unofficial information could mislead the public.
Under the timetable, political parties must conduct primaries within the legally approved period and submit candidates’ nominations within specified deadlines. Campaigns will begin and end in accordance with electoral regulations.
INEC said it would expand the use of technology, update the voter register and work with security agencies to ensure peaceful polls. It also pledged increased voter education and engagement with stakeholders.
The commission said it would continue to operate under existing electoral laws while monitoring any amendments being considered by lawmakers.
Professor Amupitan urged political parties to conduct peaceful primaries and called on Nigerians to support the process.
“I assure Nigerians that the Commission is fully prepared and determined to deliver elections that reflect the sovereign will of the people,” he said.
