Chukwu Obinna 
ABUJA, Nigeria – Nigeria’s election management body projects nearly ₦874 billion to conduct the 2027 general elections, citing operational, technological and personnel costs.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) presents the estimate to the National Assembly Joint Committee on Electoral Matters.
INEC Chairman Joash Amupitan on Thursday says election operations account for ₦375.7 billion, while technology costs stand at ₦209.2 billion.
Lawmakers raise concerns over funding mechanisms and electronic transmission of results. Senate committee chair Samuel Lalong says the proposal will undergo detailed scrutiny.
The budget includes allowances for about 450,000 National Youth Service Corps members to be deployed for election duties.
The submission follows recent controversy over amendments to the Electoral Act, particularly electronic transmission of results. After public pressure, the Senate reversed its position, approving real-time electronic transmission with manual collation as backup.
INEC says the budget complies with legal requirements and aims to ensure nationwide coverage for credible elections.
About the Author
Otamere Gladness 
Oluwatobi Adu 
Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 