INEC Releases Revised 2027 Elections Timetable, Presidential Poll To Hold Jan 16
Nigeria’s march toward 2027 has entered a decisive phase, with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) advancing the presidential and governorship elections after widespread concerns that its earlier February dates coincided with the Ramadan fast observed by Muslim faithful.
The adjustment follows the repeal of the Electoral Act 2022 and the signing of the Electoral Act 2026 by President Bola Tinubu, marking one of the earliest administrative consequences of the new legal framework — and a response to public calls for a more inclusive electoral calendar.
In a statement signed by the National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Kudu Haruna, the Commission confirmed the shift in dates.
“The Commission had earlier fixed Saturday, February 20, 2027, for the presidential and National Assembly elections and Saturday, March 6, 2027, for the governorship and state Houses of Assembly elections.
“Following the repeal of the Electoral Act, 2022 and the enactment of the Electoral Act, 2026… the Commission has reviewed and realigned the Schedule to ensure full compliance with the new legal framework,” Haruna noted.
Revised Schedule:
Presidential and National Assembly Elections: Saturday, January 16, 2027
Governorship and State Houses of Assembly Elections: Saturday, February 6, 2027
The new dates come after public criticism of the earlier February schedule, which coincided with Ramadan observances.
Key Milestones Before 2027
INEC also outlined the critical build-up timeline:
Party primaries (including dispute resolution): April 23 – May 30, 2026
Presidential and NASS campaigns begin: August 19, 2026
Governorship and State Assembly campaigns begin: September 9, 2026
“As provided by law, campaigns shall end 24 hours before Election Day. Political parties are strongly advised to adhere strictly to these timelines. The Commission will enforce compliance with the law,” Haruna stated.
INEC stressed that the revised timetable aligns with the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and has been published across its official platforms.
Beyond the general elections, INEC announced a minor shift in the Osun State governorship election — now scheduled for August 15, 2026, instead of August 8.
While parts of the Ekiti and Osun processes have already been conducted, the Commission said all outstanding activities will strictly comply with the Electoral Act 2026.
The change came 13 days after the electoral umpire first announced dates for the general elections on February 13, 2026.
But the decision was faulted by many Nigerians, including politicians, who pointed out that the dates coincided with Ramadan, a period of fast for Muslim faithful.
The new dates also came eight days after President Bola Tinubu signed the Electoral Act, 2022 (Repeal and Re-Enactment) Bill 2026 into law, following the passage of the bill by the National Assembly after months of deliberations.
Collective Democratic Test
Haruna underscored the shared responsibility ahead:
“The successful conduct of the forthcoming elections remains a collective responsibility. The Commission calls on all stakeholders to cooperate in ensuring peaceful, credible, and inclusive elections that reflect the sovereign will of the Nigerian people,” he stated.
With a new legal framework in place and a revised calendar set, Nigeria’s political class — and electorate — will now recalibrate for a pivotal 2027 cycle.
