The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has proposed a total budget of ₦873.778 billion for the conduct of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections, alongside a separate ₦171 billion request to fund its operations in 2026.
INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, disclosed this on Thursday while defending the Commission’s financial proposals before the National Assembly Joint Committee on Electoral Matters.
Breakdown Of 2027 Election Budget
According to Amupitan, the nearly ₦874 billion earmarked for the 2027 polls is distinct from the proposed ₦171 billion 2026 operational budget, which will cover routine administrative activities, by-elections, and off-cycle governorship elections.
A detailed breakdown of the 2027 election estimate shows:
₦379.748bn for operational expenses
₦92.317bn for administrative costs
₦209.206bn for technology
₦154.905bn for capital expenditure
₦42.608bn for miscellaneous items
However, the estimate excludes a fresh request by the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) seeking an increase in allowances for corps members who serve as ad hoc election staff.
Details Of 2026 Operational Budget
For 2026, the INEC boss explained that although the Ministry of Finance issued a budget ceiling of ₦140 billion, the Commission requires ₦171 billion to meet its obligations.
The proposed 2026 budget includes:
₦109bn for personnel costs
₦18.7bn for overhead expenses
₦42.63bn for election-related activities
₦1.4bn for capital projects
INEC Criticises Envelope Budgeting System
Amupitan criticised the current envelope budgeting system, saying it does not reflect the operational realities of an electoral body that often needs urgent and flexible funding, particularly in the lead-up to major elections.
He also stressed the need for a dedicated communications network to improve transparency and ensure accountability in the event of technical challenges during elections.
Lawmakers React, Push For Reforms
During the session, Senator Adams Oshiomhole called for the removal of the envelope budgeting system, while the Chairman of the House Committee on Electoral Matters, Rep. Billy Osawaru, advocated placing INEC’s budget on first-line charge to guarantee timely releases and better planning.
The Joint Committee subsequently approved a motion recommending a one-time release of INEC’s annual allocationand revealed plans to review the NYSC’s separate ₦32 billion request to increase corps members’ election allowances to ₦125,000.
Warning Over Election Promises
While pledging legislative support, Rep. Bayo Balogun cautioned INEC against overpromising and underdelivering, referencing past controversies surrounding the INEC Result Viewing (IReV) portal. He noted that public expectations for real-time result transmission were high despite limited legal backing in the Electoral Act.
Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on INEC, Senator Simon Lalong, reaffirmed the National Assembly’s commitment to providing adequate funding to ensure the Commission is fully prepared ahead of the 2027 general elections.