INEC Kicks Off Activities for 2027 General Elections, Opens Primaries Window

Abuja, Nigeria | April 23, 2026

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially commenced activities for the 2027 general elections with the opening of a 38-day window for political parties to conduct their primaries.

With this development, political parties now have from April 23 to May 30, 2026, to organize and conclude primaries for various elective positions, including presidential, governorship, National Assembly, and State Houses of Assembly seats. The period also allows parties to resolve any disputes arising from the primary processes within the stipulated timeframe.

As part of the guidelines, INEC has mandated that all political parties must submit their membership registers at least 21 days before conducting their primaries. Consequently, the deadline for submission of membership registers has been fixed for May 10, 2026.

The commencement of the primaries window marks a critical phase in Nigeria’s electoral calendar, setting the stage for the selection of candidates who will contest in the 2027 general elections.

INEC emphasized the importance of strict compliance with the timetable and guidelines to ensure transparency, fairness, and credibility in the electoral process. The Commission is expected to monitor party primaries closely to ensure adherence to electoral laws and regulations.

The development signals the beginning of heightened political activities across the country, as parties prepare to select candidates and strategize ahead of the 2027 polls.