The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has proposed a substantial increase in its 2025 budget, citing the need for additional funding to support key areas of its work. Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu defended the Commission’s 2025 budget proposal before the Joint Committee on Electoral Matters at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja, stressing that the proposed N40bn allocation is inadequate.
INEC requires approximately N126bn to fund its activities in 2025 and begin preparation for the 2027 general elections. The proposed budget will cover essential expenses such as:
- Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise: INEC needs to resume the CVR exercise, which has been on hold due to lack of funds.
- Logistics for off-cycle elections: The Commission must prepare for upcoming elections, including the Anambra governorship election and Area Council elections.
- Replacement of damaged election materials: INEC needs to replace lost or damaged materials, including Bimodal Voter Accreditation Systems (BVAS), Ballot Boxes, and Voting cubicles.
- Repair of INEC offices: The Commission has over 850 buildings across the country in need of renovation.
Prof. Yakubu emphasized that 2025 is a critical year for preparing for the 2027 General Elections, and receiving funds on time is essential for smooth operations. The INEC Chairman also noted that the Commission has over 14,700 staff members, aside from political appointees, and needs adequate funding to cover personnel costs.
The Joint Committee on Electoral Matters has assured INEC that it will work to secure the proposed N126bn budget. Senator Ireti Kingibe (LP, FCT) stated that INEC’s independence is crucial, and the Commission must receive the necessary funding to discharge its responsibilities.
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