INEC Seeks N873bn for 2027 Polls, Proposes N171bn 2026 Budget

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially proposed a budget of N873.778 billion to conduct the 2027 general elections. This figure was disclosed by the INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, during a budget defense session with the National Assembly Joint Committee on Electoral Matters in Abuja. He clarified that this election-specific budget is distinct from the Commission's proposed N171 billion budget for the 2026 fiscal year, which is intended for routine operations, personnel costs, and off-cycle elections.

Breaking down the N873.778 billion election budget, Prof. Amupitan explained that the funds are allocated across five major components: N379.748 billion for operational expenses, N209.206 billion for technology, N154.905 billion for capital expenditure, N92.317 billion for administrative costs, and N42.608 billion for miscellaneous items. He noted that this proposal excludes a separate request by the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) for an upward review of allowances for corps members who will serve as ad-hoc staff during the elections.

Regarding the 2026 fiscal year, the INEC Chairman revealed that while the Ministry of Finance had set a budget ceiling of N140 billion, the Commission is requesting N171 billion to effectively meet its obligations. He criticized the current "envelope budgeting system," arguing that it restricts the Commission's ability to respond to urgent operational needs. He also highlighted the lack of a dedicated independent communications network as a major challenge, stressing that such infrastructure is crucial for transparency and accountability.

Lawmakers at the session, including Senator Adams Oshiomhole and Rep. Billy Osawaru, expressed support for INEC's funding requests. They advocated for the removal of the envelope system for the electoral body and urged that its budget be placed on a first-line charge to ensure timely release of funds. However, the Chairman of the House Committee on Electoral Matters, Rep. Bayo Balogun, cautioned INEC against making promises it cannot keep, particularly referencing the controversy over real-time result uploads during the last general election.