The Digest:
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has presented a proposed budget of N873.78 billion for the conduct of the 2027 general elections. Chairman Prof. Joash Amupitan submitted the proposal on Thursday to the joint Senate and House Committee on Electoral Matters at the National Assembly. According to the breakdown, election operations account for N375.75 billion, technology receives N209.21 billion, administrative costs N92.31 billion, and capital projects N154.90 billion, with N41.61 billion for other expenses. Amupitan stressed that early appropriation, at least 360 days before polling, is legally mandated and necessary for adequate planning and seamless execution. He noted capital allocation is higher than previous cycles due to consolidation of previously excluded items.
Key Points:
- The substantial budget, funded by taxpayers, comes amid economic hardship and competing demands for public resources.
- N209 billion allocated to technology raises expectations for transparent, real-time results transmission.
- Election contractors and technology vendors stand to benefit, while voters hope for improved electoral integrity.
- This signals INEC's intent to rely heavily on technology despite unresolved legislative debates on transmission.
- The timing, two years before elections, allows for early procurement and avoids last-minute logistical failures.
Sources: INEC, National Assembly
