INEC Fixes February 20, 2027 for Presidential, National Assembly Elections
The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan, has formally released the Notice of Election and the Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the 2027 General Elections, announcing February 20, 2027, as the date for the Presidential and National Assembly polls.
Addressing journalists in Abuja on Friday, Prof. Amupitan described the announcement as “a significant milestone in our democratic journey” and a constitutional obligation aimed at further consolidating Nigeria’s democracy.
According to the Commission, the Presidential and National Assembly elections will hold on February 20, 2027, while the Governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections are scheduled for March 6, 2027.
The elections will cover the offices of President and Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria; Governors and Deputy Governors, except in Anambra, Bayelsa, Edo, Ekiti, Imo, Kogi, Ondo and Osun States; as well as members of the Senate, House of Representatives and State Houses of Assembly.
Prof. Amupitan noted that the release of the Notice complies strictly with the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Section 28(1) of the Electoral Act, 2022, which requires publication not later than 360 days before the election date.
He addressed recent speculation over election dates, warning against the circulation of unofficial schedules. According to him, only INEC has the constitutional authority to fix election dates, describing attempts to preempt the Commission as misleading.
The Chairman also disclosed that INEC is closely monitoring proposed amendments to the Electoral Act currently before the National Assembly, stating that while reforms are welcome, the Commission remains bound by existing laws until any amendments are enacted.
“The timely announcement of the election date allows political parties, civil society organisations and the electorate to prepare adequately,” he said.
Under the approved timetable, political party primaries must be conducted within the statutory period, nomination forms must be submitted within designated windows, and campaigns will commence and end in accordance with legal provisions, with activities ceasing 24 hours before Election Day.
Prof. Amupitan warned that the Commission would strictly enforce compliance with electoral laws and timelines.
Reaffirming INEC’s independence and neutrality, he outlined key priorities for the 2027 elections, including expanded deployment of technology to enhance transparency, continuous cleaning of the National Register of Voters, strengthened collaboration with security agencies, and increased voter education and stakeholder engagement.
He urged political parties to conduct peaceful primaries, avoid inflammatory rhetoric and uphold internal democracy, while calling on citizens to maintain peace throughout the electoral process.
Describing the 2027 General Elections as a collective national responsibility, the INEC Chairman called on government institutions, the media, security agencies, civil society groups and Nigerians at large to safeguard the integrity of the process.
“As we commence this important national exercise, I assure Nigerians that the Commission is fully prepared and determined to deliver elections that reflect the sovereign will of the people,” he stated.
INEC Fixes February 20, 2027 for Presidential, National Assembly Elections