What You Need to Know
The Independent National Electoral Commission of Nigeria has announced that the upcoming presidential elections will take place on January 16, 2027. This marks the first presidential election in January since the country returned to civilian rule in 1999. Changes to the electoral law necessitated adjustments to the election schedule.
Africa-Press. The Independent National Electoral Commission has announced that the upcoming presidential elections in Nigeria will take place on January 16, 2027. This will be the first presidential election held in January since the country returned to civilian rule in 1999.
This decision follows the repeal of the 2022 electoral law and the enactment of a new law in 2026, which necessitated adjustments to the election schedule. According to the new timetable, gubernatorial elections and state legislative elections will be held on February 6, 2027, two weeks after the federal elections.
National Commissioner and Chairman of the Media Committee, Mohammed Haruna, stated that the revised dates aim to ensure full compliance with the new law. Political parties have been informed of the need to conduct primary elections and resolve disputes between April 23 and May 30, 2026, giving candidates less than eight months to prepare before election day.
In a separate announcement, the Commission confirmed that the Osun State elections, previously scheduled for August 8, 2026, will be postponed by one week to August 15, 2026. This change is due to some preparations in Ekiti and Osun states having begun under the old law, while the remaining activities will be completed under the new legislation.
Nigeria has a complex electoral history, having transitioned from military rule to civilian governance in 1999. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) plays a crucial role in overseeing elections, ensuring they are free and fair. The upcoming elections in 2027 will be significant as they will be the first presidential elections held in January since the return to democracy, reflecting ongoing efforts to stabilize the electoral process in the country.
