INEC Chairman Calls for Funding Boost Ahead of 2027 Elections

On Tuesday, during a courtesy visit to the Revenue Mobilization, Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) in Abuja, Prof. Joash Amupitan, the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), called for enhanced funding and improved staff welfare in preparation for the 2027 general elections. He requested the RMAFC to approve an increase in sustainable funding for INEC, noting that the costs associated with conducting a single governorship election exceed the combined costs of presidential and national assembly elections.

Amupitan highlighted that INEC is currently managing elections across 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, with the federal government covering the full costs of maintaining its nationwide structure. He warned that poor welfare conditions could lead to a loss of experienced staff and widen the skill gap within the commission.

Additionally, he emphasized the importance of investing in electoral technology and personnel training to preserve institutional knowledge. The presidential and national assembly elections are scheduled for January 16, 2027, while the governorship and state assembly elections will occur on February 6, 2027.