The House of Representatives has begun deliberations on a proposal that could see Nigeria conduct all major elections — presidential, governorship, National Assembly, and State Assembly — on the same day.
Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas, made this known in Abuja on Thursday while hosting a delegation from the European Union.
He explained that the move is part of sweeping electoral reforms aimed at cutting costs, reducing political tension, improving efficiency, and boosting voter turnout.
“We are proposing that the election of the president, members of the National Assembly, governors, and state assembly members be held on a single day,” Abbas stated. “In our view, this will not only streamline the process but also encourage higher participation by voters.”
The Speaker noted that the reform package also includes constitutional amendments to provide reserved seats for women and persons with disabilities, financial autonomy for state legislatures, and clearer roles for traditional rulers.
READ ALSO: Abbas to Address UN Amid Rising Tensions Over West Bank Annexation
He urged the EU delegation to support the National Assembly through advocacy and awareness campaigns, stressing that state assemblies must also approve the reforms for them to take effect.
“We will do all that is necessary on our part to empower INEC with the right tools to make the 2027 elections significantly better than those of 2023,” Abbas added.
While similar proposals failed in past assemblies, supporters insist that same-day elections would help Nigeria overcome logistical and security challenges that often mar staggered polls.
The National Assembly is currently working on constitutional amendments and is expected to vote on key alteration bills this month.