The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has revised the schedule for the 2027 general elections, announcing January 16, 2027, as the new date for the presidential and National Assembly polls.

In addition, the commission confirmed that governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections across the country will now take place on February 6, 2027.

The updated timetable was made public in a statement released on Thursday by the National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Haruna. INEC explained that the change followed the repeal of the Electoral Act, 2022, and the introduction of the Electoral Act, 2026, which required a reorganisation of the electoral calendar.

Before the adjustment, the presidential and National Assembly elections had been slated for February 20, 2027, while the governorship and state assembly contests were earlier fixed for March 6, 2027.

The previously announced February 20 date had generated debate after former Vice President Atiku Abubakar called on INEC to reconsider the timing, pointing out that it coincided with the Ramadan fasting season observed by millions of Nigerian Muslims.

Atiku cautioned that holding elections during Ramadan could adversely affect voter turnout and civic engagement, arguing that the timing did not adequately reflect Nigeria’s religious sensitivities. He stressed that elections are significant national events that require widespread participation, physical stamina, and collective concentration, adding that inclusive planning is crucial in a multi-faith society.

Although INEC had initially maintained that its earlier timetable met constitutional and statutory guidelines, the enactment of the Electoral Act, 2026 ultimately prompted the commission to revisit and adjust the schedule, resulting in the newly announced dates.