The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has fixed Saturday, January 16, 2027, for Nigeria’s presidential and National Assembly elections.

The commission said the earlier date of February 20, 2027, was adjusted following concerns that it would coincide with the Muslim Ramadan fasting period.

INEC also announced that governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections will now hold on Saturday, February 6, 2027, ahead of the commencement of Ramadan.

The decision was contained in a statement issued on Thursday by Mohammed Haruna, National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee.

“Accordingly, the Commission has resolved as follows: Presidential and National Assembly Elections will now hold on Saturday, 16th January 2027, while Governorship and State Houses of Assembly Elections will now hold on Saturday, 6th February 2027,” the statement read.

The commission directed political parties to conduct their primary elections and resolve internal disputes arising from candidate nominations between April 23 and May 30, 2026, describing the period as the final window for such activities.

INEC further stated that campaigns for presidential and National Assembly elections will begin on August 19, 2026, while governorship and State Houses of Assembly campaigns will commence on 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,” the statement added.

Meanwhile, INEC also shifted the Osun State governorship election from August 8 to August 15, 2026.

The commission noted that some activities for the Ekiti and Osun governorship elections had already been conducted but assured that the remaining processes would strictly comply with the provisions of the Electoral Act, 2026.