The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has rescheduled Nigeria’s presidential and National Assembly elections for January 16, 2027, following complaints that the initial date of  February 20 would fall during the Muslim Ramadan fasting.

The commission also moved the governorship polls from March to February 6, 2027, just before the moon sighting that heralds the annual Ramadan fast.

“Accordingly, the Commission has resolved as follows: Presidential and National Assembly Elections will now hold on Saturday, 16th January 2027, Governorship and State Houses of Assembly Elections will now hold on Saturday, 6th February 2027,” reads the statement signed by Mohammed Haruna, national commissioner and chair, information and voter education committee, on Thursday.

Mr Haruna stressed that the new timetable mandates political parties to conduct primary elections and resolve internal disputes over the selection of candidates between April 23, 2026, and May 30, 2026 as the last fate for such activities

He authorised presidential and national assembly campaigns to begin on August 19, 2026 while governorship elections and states Assembly campaigns are to commence September 9, 2026.

“As provided by law, campaigns shall end 24 hours before Election Day. Political parties are strongly advised to adhere strictly to these timelines. The Commission will enforce compliance with the law,” the INEC chair said.

INEC also rescheduled the Osun governorship election from August 8, 2026 to August 15, 2026. 

“The commission notes that some activities in respect of the Ekiti and Osun Governorship Elections have already been conducted. However, the remaining activities will now be implemented strictly in accordance with the Electoral Act, 2026,” he said.