INEC 2027 timetable important dates
The Independent National Electoral Commission has released key dates in its timetable for the 2027 general elections, outlining a clear schedule from party primaries to the main polls. The timeline is designed to guide political parties, candidates and voters as preparations intensify across the country.
According to the timetable, political parties are expected to conduct their primaries within a specified window to select candidates for presidential, governorship, National Assembly and state assembly elections. INEC fixed the primaries to begin in early 2026 and conclude several months before the official campaign season. This period allows the commission to monitor compliance with the Electoral Act and party guidelines.
Following the primaries, parties are required to submit the names of their candidates to INEC before the statutory deadline. The commission emphasized that late submissions will not be accepted, as it aims to maintain transparency and avoid last-minute disputes. The publication of final candidate lists is scheduled shortly after the submission deadline to give voters clarity ahead of campaigns.
Campaign activities for presidential and National Assembly elections are expected to commence later in 2026, while governorship and state assembly campaigns will follow according to the electoral calendar. INEC has reiterated that all campaign activities must comply with legal spending limits and codes of conduct.
The presidential and National Assembly elections are scheduled for January 16, 2027, while governorship and state assembly polls will hold weeks later. INEC said the early release of the timetable is intended to provide adequate time for preparation, reduce uncertainty and strengthen electoral credibility.
Stakeholders have welcomed the detailed schedule, noting that early planning is critical to peaceful and transparent elections. Political observers say adherence to the timetable will play a vital role in ensuring a smooth transition process and deepening democratic governance in Nigeria.
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