Nigeria’s electoral landscape has officially taken shape as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) announced February 20, 2027, as the date for the Presidential and National Assembly elections, with Governorship and State Houses of Assembly polls scheduled for March 6, 2027.
The announcement was made on Friday in Abuja by the Commission’s Chairman, Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan, who described the release of the Notice of Election and the detailed timetable as a major constitutional and democratic milestone for Nigeria.
Elections to Determine National and State Leadership
INEC disclosed that the 2027 general elections will cover the offices of the President and Vice President, members of the Senate and House of Representatives, as well as governors, deputy governors, and members of state legislative assemblies across the country.
However, governorship elections will not hold in Anambra, Bayelsa, Edo, Ekiti, Imo, Kogi, Ondo, and Osun states due to their staggered electoral calendars.
Prof. Amupitan explained that the early announcement aligns with constitutional provisions and Section 28(1) of the Electoral Act, which requires INEC to publish election notices at least 360 days before the polls.
Warning Against Unofficial Election Timelines
Addressing recent speculation about election dates, the INEC chairman cautioned against reliance on unofficial timetables circulating in public spaces, stressing that only the Commission has the legal authority to fix election schedules.
He further noted that while the Commission is observing proposed electoral reforms currently before the National Assembly, it remains bound by existing laws until any amendments are formally passed and signed into law.
Strict Timetable for Political Parties
Under the approved schedule, political parties are expected to conduct primaries within the legally stipulated period and submit candidate nomination forms within designated deadlines. Electioneering campaigns will commence as provided by law and must end 24 hours before voting begins.
The INEC chairman warned that the Commission would strictly enforce compliance with electoral guidelines and would not hesitate to sanction defaulters.
Technology, Security, and Voter Education in Focus
Prof. Amupitan revealed that preparations for the 2027 elections will prioritize expanded deployment of election technology to improve transparency and credibility. He also highlighted plans to continuously update the National Register of Voters and strengthen collaboration with security agencies to guarantee peaceful elections nationwide.
Additionally, INEC plans to intensify voter education campaigns and stakeholder engagement to encourage greater public participation in the democratic process.
Call for Peaceful Democratic Participation
Calling for responsible political conduct, the INEC boss urged political parties to embrace internal democracy, conduct peaceful primaries, and avoid inflammatory rhetoric. He also appealed to citizens to remain peaceful throughout the electoral cycle.
Describing the 2027 general elections as a shared national responsibility, Prof. Amupitan emphasized the need for cooperation among government institutions, security agencies, the media, civil society organizations, and the electorate.
“As we commence this critical national exercise, the Commission remains fully prepared and committed to conducting credible, transparent, and inclusive elections that truly reflect the will of Nigerians,” he said.
The announcement signals the official beginning of preparations for the highly anticipated 2027 polls, as political actors and stakeholders begin mobilization under the growing national conversation tagged #NigeriaDecides2027.