By NIGPOST Reporter
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has projected a budget of N126 billion for its 2025 activities, including preparatory plans for the 2027 general elections.
This announcement was made by INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, during a budget defense session at the National Assembly Complex.
Prof. Yakubu revealed that the N40 billion allocation proposed for INEC in the 2025 budget by President Bola Tinubu falls short of what is required.
He highlighted that this amount barely covers staff salaries and social contributions like pensions, NHIS, and ITF.
INEC had made an earlier request for N80 billion in 2024 but only received N40 billion, which necessitated additional funds from the executive for critical elections.
“We had to secure N10.5 billion from the executive to successfully conduct the Edo and Ondo governorship elections,” Yakubu stated.
Critical Activities in 2025
Yakubu emphasized the importance of 2025 for electoral activities:
The Anambra governorship election later in the year lacks budgetary provision.
Preparations for the February 2026 Area Council elections remain unfunded.
Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) for the 2027 elections must commence this year.
Redistribution of voters from overcrowded polling units is yet to begin.
Additionally, the commission is tasked with conducting 11 bye-elections in 2025 due to deaths and resignations in various legislative seats.
While N500 million has been secured, it is insufficient to cover the full costs.
Infrastructure and Equipment Needs
INEC also faces significant infrastructural and equipment challenges:
Renovation of over 850 offices across Nigeria.
Relocation of 59 local government offices from insecure areas, with plans to move at least 30 in 2025.
Replacement of over 440 damaged BVAS machines, with only N205 million collected from insurance payouts.
Yakubu noted, “These expenses are critical for smooth electoral processes and require immediate funding.”
During the session, Senator Ireti Kingibe (FCT) urged lawmakers to prioritize INEC’s financial independence, stating, “INEC must get the funding it needs to uphold our democracy.”
Similarly, House of Representatives member Adeboye Paul criticized the current funding system, describing it as “dangerous” for democratic integrity.
The budget defense concluded with a closed-door session involving the INEC chairman, seven national commissioners, and directors.
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