The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially released the timetable and schedule for Nigeria’s 2027 general elections, providing a clear framework for political parties, candidates, and voters.
At a press conference in Abuja on Friday, February 13, 2026, INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, dismissed earlier reports that the commission had already issued the election timetable, describing them as inaccurate.
He confirmed that the timetable is published in full compliance with the 1999 Constitution and the Electoral Act, 2022 (as amended).
According to the schedule, the Presidential Election is set for Saturday, February 20, 2027, while governorship, senatorial, and State Houses of Assembly elections will take place on Saturday, March 6, 2027.
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The commission outlined the broader electoral cycle as follows:
• Party Primaries: July 1 – September 30, 2026
• Submission of Candidate Lists: October 1 – October 31, 2026
• Publication of Final Candidate List: November 15, 2026
• Campaign Period – Presidential & National Assembly: November 18, 2026 – February 19, 2027
• Campaign Period – Governorship & State Assembly:   December 15, 2026 – March 5, 2027
• Continuous Voter Registration (CVR): April 2026 – January 2027
Prof. Amupitan emphasized that all political actors must adhere strictly to the timetable, warning that premature campaigning or any activity outside the legal windows would violate the Electoral Act.
The official release of the timetable marks a critical milestone in preparations for the 2027 elections, providing a structured roadmap for the electoral process nationwide.