SENATE SEEKS ADDITIONAL 30 BILLION NAIRA FOR INEC TO CONDUCT 2027 ELECTION

opeolumartinFebruary 24, 202603 mins

Abuja, Nigeria, February 24, 2026

The Senate Committee on Electoral Matters has requested an additional 30 billion naira for the (INEC) to ensure the smooth conduct of the 2027 General Election.

INEC had earlier proposed a budget of 873 billion naira to cover the cost of organizing the nationwide polls. However, lawmakers say emerging logistics demands and the need to improve operational efficiency have necessitated an upward review of the commission’s funding.

Chairman of the Senate Committee on Electoral Matters disclosed that the additional funds would primarily address critical logistics, including transportation of sensitive and non-sensitive materials, deployment of personnel, and enhancement of technology infrastructure across the country’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

The committee emphasized that lessons learned from previous elections underscore the importance of early planning and adequate funding to prevent delays, technical hitches, and other operational challenges. According to the lawmakers, strengthening INEC’s logistics framework will boost public confidence and ensure timely delivery of election materials to polling units nationwide.

The proposed increment brings the total projected cost for the 2027 General Election to 903 billion naira, pending approval by the National Assembly.

INEC officials have maintained that early release of funds remains crucial for proper procurement processes, staff training, voter education, and deployment of electoral technologies. The electoral body also noted that inflationary pressures and rising transportation costs have significantly impacted operational expenses.

The Senate Committee assured Nigerians that the additional allocation is aimed at guaranteeing a credible, transparent, and efficient electoral process in 2027.

National Assembly Correspondent, Lami Ali, reports that deliberations on the revised budget proposal are ongoing, with lawmakers expected to reach a final decision in the coming weeks.