INEC Allocates ₦873.78 Billion For Successful Execution Of 2027 General Elections
By Oludare Joshua
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has unveiled a significant budget proposal of N873.78 billion for the upcoming 2027 general elections, marking the formal commencement of preparations for this crucial nationwide electoral event.
During a presentation to the joint Senate and House of Representatives Committee on Electoral Matters at the National Assembly on Thursday, INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, emphasized the importance of early financial planning. He urged that election funds must be approved at least 360 days prior to polling, as mandated by law, to ensure a well-organized electoral process.
”Early appropriation is essential for effective planning and seamless execution of the elections,” Prof. Amupitan stated, highlighting the crucial role of timely funding in achieving electoral success.
The proposed budget allocates the largest portion—N375.75 billion—toward election operations, designated for activities directly related to the voting process. Additionally, administrative costs are estimated at N92.31 billion, while N209.21 billion is earmarked for election technology, reflecting INEC’s ongoing commitment to leveraging technology in the electoral process.
Furthermore, the commission has proposed N154.90 billion for capital projects, which brings the subtotal of these four key components to N832.17 billion. An extra N41.61 billion has been reserved for other related expenses, resulting in the overall budget totaling N873.78 billion.
Prof. Amupitan pointed out that the capital allocation for the 2027 elections is notably higher than in previous election cycles, as several capital projects previously omitted have now been incorporated into this new budget proposal.
He concluded by stating that comprehensive details regarding the proposed expenditures, along with a breakdown of specific activities and costs, have been submitted to the National Assembly for further deliberation.
