Nigeria’s National Assembly (NASS) is proposing that the 2027 general elections be held in November 2026, six months before the end of the current administration’s tenure.
The proposal, contained in the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill 2025, seeks to ensure that all election petitions are concluded before the May 29, 2027 handover, ending the era of post-swearing-in litigations.
The draft bill was presented at a public hearing jointly organised by the Senate and House Committees on Electoral Matters in Abuja, with participation from INEC, political parties, and civil society groups.
Under the amendment, presidential and governorship elections must be conducted not later than 185 days before the expiration of tenure, shifting polls to November 2026 — earlier than the usual February or March.
Chairman of the House Committee, Adebayo Balogun, said the change aims to “ensure all election disputes are resolved before winners assume office.”
The bill also introduces:
- Electronic voting and transmission of results (with penalties for non-compliance)
- Early voting for INEC officials, security agents, journalists, and observers up to 14 days before election day
INEC’s representative, Prof. Abdullahi Zuru, described the reforms as timely and necessary to “enhance credibility and reduce pressure on the courts.”
Civil society organisations hailed the move as bold and forward-looking, noting it would strengthen Nigeria’s democracy and smoothen power transitions.
If passed, the proposal will reset Nigeria’s political calendar and may mark a turning point in electoral governance.
