The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) says it has received more than ₦500 billion, representing over 50 per cent of the funds approved for the conduct of the 2027 general elections, describing the release as a major boost to preparations while noting that additional funding is still required.
The Independent National Electoral Commission has disclosed that it has received more than half of the budget approved for the 2027 general elections, saying the early release of funds has significantly strengthened preparations for Nigeria’s next nationwide polls. The commission, however, stressed that it still requires the balance of the allocation to fully implement its election plans.
INEC National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Haruna, disclosed during an interview that the commission has so far received over ₦500 billion, representing more than half of the approved election budget.
According to him:
“Currently, we have received more than half of the allocated funds, approximately ₦500 billion or slightly more.”
Haruna explained that although the funding release is encouraging, INEC is still contending with financial obligations arising from the 2023 general elections, including outstanding payments owed to contractors.
Earlier in the year, INEC proposed about ₦873.78 billion for the conduct of the 2027 general elections, with allocations covering election operations, technology, administration, capital expenditure and logistics.
The commission had previously warned that timely funding was essential to allow for procurement, training, technology deployment and other statutory preparations required before the elections.
Haruna said the commission remains committed to conducting credible elections but appealed for the timely release of the remaining funds to avoid disruptions to its timetable.
He added that INEC is already implementing key reforms, including expanded technology deployment, improved voter registration systems and other initiatives aimed at strengthening transparency and efficiency ahead of the 2027 polls.
With more than half of its election budget now available, INEC says preparations for the 2027 general elections are progressing steadily. The commission nevertheless maintains that full implementation of its plans will depend on the prompt release of the outstanding allocation and continued institutional support in the months leading up to the polls.