The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of Nigeria has completed nine out of 14 key activities on its revised timetable for the 2027 general elections. INEC Chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan, disclosed this during a meeting with British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Peter Vowles, and his delegation at the commission's headquarters. Amupitan expressed confidence in INEC's preparations for the 2027 polls, stating that the commission had transitioned from planning to implementing critical electoral activities.
INEC is working to strengthen the credibility of the national voters' register through continuous voter registration, data verification, voter transfers, and the removal of ineligible entries. The nationwide collection and distribution of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) are ongoing, while political parties have completed the submission of their candidates in compliance with the Electoral Act and statutory deadlines. These efforts aim to ensure a robust and accurate voters' register for the 2027 elections.
On electoral technology, Amupitan disclosed that INEC is concentrating on improving the reliability of existing systems, particularly the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and electronic transmission of election results. The commission is not planning to introduce an entirely new technological framework but will rather strengthen existing infrastructure to improve efficiency and public confidence in the electoral process.
INEC identified cybersecurity, specialised training for electoral personnel, strategic communication, voter education, and combating misinformation as priority areas requiring additional technical assistance from the United Kingdom. Amupitan also called for stronger collaboration with security agencies to safeguard election personnel, facilities, and sensitive electoral materials. This support will help address challenges and ensure a smooth electoral process.
Addressing concerns about voter apathy, particularly among young people, women, and persons with disabilities, Amupitan said INEC is implementing initiatives to encourage wider participation in the democratic process. A university debate programme organised across the six geopolitical zones is part of efforts to deepen young people's understanding of democracy and encourage electoral participation.
British High Commissioner Peter Vowles reaffirmed Britain's interest in supporting Nigeria's democratic development and strengthening its democratic institutions. He described Nigeria's democracy as significant to its estimated 240 million citizens, the West African region, and the wider international community. The 2027 elections will provide Nigeria with an opportunity to demonstrate how democratic governance can function in a large and diverse country.
Amupitan expressed optimism that the renewed engagement with the UK would expand cooperation in electoral technology, cybersecurity, personnel training, and measures to strengthen public confidence. He assured Nigerians and the international community that INEC remained committed to delivering credible, transparent, inclusive, and peaceful elections in 2027.
Key points
- INEC seeks UK technical support for electoral technology and cybersecurity ahead of the 2027 general elections.
- The commission has completed nine out of 14 key activities on its revised timetable for the 2027 elections.
- INEC is implementing initiatives to encourage wider participation in the democratic process, particularly among young people, women, and persons with disabilities.
