INEC Chairman Seeks More Funding for 2027 Elections

• INEC Chairman Prof. Joash Amupitan says governorship elections cost more than the combined presidential and National Assembly polls, as he calls for increased funding ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, has revealed that conducting governorship elections across Nigeria costs more than the combined expenses of the presidential and National Assembly elections.

Speaking during a visit to the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) in Abuja, Amupitan appealed for increased and consistent funding ahead of the 2027 general elections, stressing that the commission’s nationwide responsibilities require substantial financial support.

According to him, INEC not only conducts elections for the President, governors, National Assembly, state assemblies and the FCT Area Councils, but also handles continuous voter registration, political party registration, and election-related legal processes, including petitions arising from party primaries.

He noted that the commission operates offices in all 36 states, the Federal Capital Territory and 774 local government areas, with the Federal Government bearing the cost of maintaining the nationwide structure.

Amupitan also raised concerns over staff welfare, warning that inadequate remuneration has led to the loss of experienced personnel to migration. He said better salaries, improved infrastructure, investment in election technology and continuous staff training are essential to strengthening the commission ahead of future elections.

The INEC chairman reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to conducting free, fair and credible elections, disclosing that the 2027 presidential and National Assembly elections are scheduled for January 16, while governorship and state assembly elections will hold on February 6. He also announced that the Osun State off-cycle governorship election will take place on August 15, 2026.

Responding, RMAFC Chairman Dr. Mohammed Shehu praised INEC’s consistency in conducting elections since 1999 and pledged the commission’s support in ensuring adequate collaboration and funding ahead of the 2027 polls.