INEC seeks better funding, staff welfare ahead of 2027 elections

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of Nigeria is urgently seeking enhanced financial resources and better welfare conditions for its staff to ensure the integrity of the 2027 general elections. INEC Chairman Professor Joash Amupitan made a direct appeal to the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) during a visit to its chairman, Dr. Mohammed Bello Shehu, in Abuja.

Amupitan emphasized that INEC's constitutional mandate extends beyond presidential and legislative elections to include continuous voter registration and political party oversight. He stressed that adequate funding is critical for these operations, noting that the cost of conducting gubernatorial elections alone surpasses the combined expenses of presidential and National Assembly polls. Furthermore, INEC shoulders the financial burden of pre- and post-election activities, including managing election petitions that arise from party primaries.

Highlighting the logistical scale of INEC's operations, Amupitan mentioned the commission's presence in all 36 states, the Federal Capital Territory, and 774 local government areas, with all nationwide operations funded by the Federal Government. He also raised concerns about staff welfare, warning that insufficient remuneration has led to the migration of experienced personnel, potentially creating a significant skills gap as senior staff approach retirement.

Improved welfare, Amupitan argued, would boost staff morale, aid in retaining skilled workers, and ultimately strengthen public confidence in the electoral process. He further called for increased investment in electoral technology and personnel training, deeming these essential for preserving institutional knowledge and enhancing overall efficiency. INEC remains committed to conducting free, fair, and credible elections, with presidential and National Assembly polls scheduled for January 16, 2027, and governorship and state assembly elections on February 6, 2027.

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The Commission had, in recent times, lost some experienced staff to migration, and a widening skills gap could emerge as more senior personnel approach retirement.