The Independent National Electoral Commission has fixed Saturday, February 20, 2027, as the date for Nigeria’s presidential and National Assembly elections, INEC Chairman Abdul-Ghaniyu Mohammed said in Lagos.
The Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria empowers the Independent National Electoral Commission to determine election schedules for federal elections, including the presidency and the National Assembly.
These elections normally occur every four years, with the next cycle due in 2027. Last year INEC outlined a timetable for the elections in line with constitutional requirements and electoral processes.
Presidential and National Assembly elections select the President, members of the Senate, and members of the House of Representatives.
These elections precede governorship and state assembly elections, which are typically held later in the year. The federal polls are central to Nigeria’s democratic cycle.
INEC Chairman Professor Abdul-Ghaniyu Mohammed announced the date in Lagos on Thursday during a stakeholders’ engagement aimed at preparing political parties and the public for the 2027 general elections.
He said the commission adopted February 20, 2027 for the presidential and National Assembly polls after reviewing logistics and constitutional timelines.
The commission also said it would soon publish a detailed timetable and schedule of activities for the 2027 general elections, including dates for party primaries, submission of candidates’ nomination forms, and commencement of campaigns, in line with the Electoral Act.
INEC’s timetable for general elections typically outlines key operational milestones, such as the start of voter registration activities, the publication of voters’ lists, and deadlines for resolution of pre-election disputes.
These schedules are meant to guide political parties, security agencies, civil society groups and the electorate.
Setting a definitive date six months ahead of the elections provides clarity for political parties, candidates and voters. Political parties will use the announcement to finalize their primary election calendars, conduct internal selection processes and mobilise support.
It also enables security agencies and election stakeholders to plan for logistics and deployment.
For the electorate, having the election date set allows citizens to prepare for voter registration, participation in debates, and engagement with issues that will shape the 2027 polls.
Electoral timelines also affect when campaign activities can legally begin, according to Nigeria’s electoral laws.
The publication of the full timetable and schedule of activities will further outline responsibilities and deadlines for all stakeholders, including media organisations, civil society agencies and observers.
