INEC Proposes ₦874 Billion for 2027

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has submitted a staggering proposal of ₦873.778 billion to the National Assembly for the conduct of the 2027 general elections. This massive budgetary requirement was presented on Thursday by the new INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, during a defense session before the Joint Committee on Electoral Matters.

Beyond the massive outlay for the general elections, the Commission is also demanding a separate ₦171 billion to fund its operational activities for the 2026 fiscal year. Amupitan clarified that this 2026 budget is designed to cover routine administrative costs, upcoming by-elections, and crucial off-cycle governorship contests scheduled before the national polls.

A detailed breakdown of the 2027 estimate reveals substantial allocations: ₦379.748 billion is slated for operational expenses, ₦209.206 billion for technological infrastructure, ₦154.905 billion for capital projects, and ₦92.317 billion for administrative costs. Notably, these figures do not include a recent request from the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to drastically increase the allowances for corps members serving as ad hoc staff.

During the session, Amupitan criticized the government’s “envelope” budgeting system, arguing it fails to provide the flexibility needed by an electoral body requiring urgent funding. Lawmakers, including Senator Adams Oshiomhole, supported the abolition of this system, while Rep. Billy Osawaru advocated for placing INEC’s budget on a first-line charge to ensure timely releases.

The Joint Committee conditionally approved a motion recommending a one-time release of INEC’s annual allocation but warned the Commission against the technological failures that marred previous election cycles. As planning begins, the National Assembly has reaffirmed its commitment to providing the necessary funds to bolster transparency and efficiency ahead of 2027.