Tinubu signs Electoral Act 2026 into law

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has signed the Electoral Act 2026 into law, replacing the 2022 version. The bill was earlier passed by the National Assembly after deliberations by both chambers.

The new law sets the framework for the 2027 general elections. Presidential and National Assembly elections are scheduled for February 20, 2027, while governorship and state assembly elections will hold on March 6, 2027.

One of the key changes is the reduction of the election notice period from 360 days to 300 days. The Act also provides for electronic transmission of results, with manual backup where necessary.

With the President’s assent, the Independent National Electoral Commission is expected to issue guidelines in line with the updated law ahead of the 2027 polls.