INEC PROPOSES ₦171BN 2026 BUDGET AS 2027 ELECTION COST NEARS ₦874BN

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has proposed a ₦171 billion budget for the 2026 fiscal year while projecting that the conduct of the 2027 general elections could cost approximately ₦873.8 billion. The proposal was presented to the National Assembly Joint Committee on Electoral Matters as part of preparations for the next electoral cycle. 

INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, explained that the estimated ₦873.8 billion earmarked for the 2027 elections is separate from the Commission’s 2026 operational budget. He noted that the 2026 proposal would primarily cover routine electoral activities such as by-elections and off-cycle polls across the country. 

According to the electoral body, the projected 2027 election budget is structured across five key components, including operational expenses, administrative costs, technology deployment, capital expenditure, and miscellaneous items. INEC revealed that the largest portion of the election budget would be allocated to operational activities, while substantial funds would also be dedicated to technological infrastructure to improve election transparency and efficiency. 

The Commission disclosed that the Ministry of Finance issued a budget ceiling of ₦140 billion for its 2026 operations, but INEC is seeking an upward review to ₦171 billion to adequately meet its responsibilities. The proposed 2026 budget breakdown includes ₦109 billion for personnel costs, ₦18.7 billion for overhead expenses, ₦42.63 billion for election-related activities, and ₦1.4 billion for capital projects. 

INEC also raised concerns about the current envelope budgeting framework, describing it as restrictive and inconsistent with the Commission’s operational realities. The electoral body emphasised the need for flexible funding mechanisms and stressed that the absence of a dedicated communications network remains a major challenge to achieving seamless and transparent electoral processes. 

Lawmakers at the budget session expressed concerns over the funding structure of the Commission and called for improved financial autonomy. Legislators recommended mechanisms such as one-time budget releases and first-line charge funding to enable INEC to effectively plan and execute electoral operations ahead of the 2027 general elections.