INEC Amends 2027 Election Timetable; Presidential Poll Set for Jan 16

By 𝔸bdulrazak Tomiwa

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially amended the timetable for the 2027 General Election. 

The Presidential and National Assembly elections are now scheduled to take place on Saturday, January 16, 2027.

Following the first round, the Governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections will hold two weeks later on January 30, 2027. This adjustment aims to ensure a smoother electoral process and timely transitions.

The commission cited the need to align with the newly amended Electoral Act and constitutional provisions.

This early announcement is intended to give political parties and stakeholders ample time to prepare.

Under the new schedule, voter registration and the cleaning of the national register will be intensified throughout 2026. INEC remains committed to utilizing enhanced technology to ensure the transparency of the results.

Political parties must now adjust their internal primary schedules to meet the new legal deadlines. The commission warned that there would be no extensions for the submission of candidate lists once the window closes.

Public reaction has been swift, with many praising the early clarity provided by the commission.

INEC urges all citizens to remain engaged and ensure their voter status is updated ahead of the historic polls.