The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced the timetable for the submission of candidates’ nomination forms ahead of the 2027 general elections, with the commission set to open its online nomination portal for political parties as preparations for the polls gather momentum.
Under the schedule released by the electoral body, political parties will begin submitting the names and particulars of their nominated candidates through INEC’s dedicated online portal within the timelines stipulated in the electoral calendar. The commission also disclosed that official access codes required for the submission process will be issued to duly authorized political parties before the portal opens.
According to INEC, the nomination portal for presidential and National Assembly candidates will open on July 14, 2026, and close on July 28, 2026. The portal for governorship and State House of Assembly candidates will subsequently open on August 11 and close on August 25, 2026. Access codes for political parties will be available for collection from the commission’s headquarters before the commencement of submissions.
The development marks another critical stage in the build-up to the 2027 general elections, as political parties intensify internal processes to select candidates for various elective positions across the country.
INEC explained that only designated party officials recognized by the commission would be authorized to receive the access credentials needed to upload nomination forms and candidate information. The access codes are designed to ensure the security and integrity of the nomination process and prevent unauthorized submissions.
The commission noted that political parties are expected to conclude their primaries within the approved period and resolve any disputes arising from the nomination process before submitting candidates’ details through the portal. Under the electoral timetable, parties are required to conduct their primaries and nominate candidates in compliance with the provisions of the Electoral Act.
INEC further stated that the online nomination system is intended to streamline candidate submissions, improve efficiency, and enhance transparency in the electoral process. Through the portal, political parties will upload completed nomination forms, candidates’ personal particulars, and other required documents for verification by the commission.
The electoral body has repeatedly emphasized the importance of strict adherence to the timetable, warning that deadlines will be enforced in accordance with constitutional and legal requirements. It urged political parties to complete all necessary procedures within the stipulated period to avoid complications that could affect their participation in the elections.
Political analysts say the opening of the nomination portal represents a significant milestone in the electoral process, as it effectively signals the transition from party primaries to the formal submission and validation of candidates seeking elective offices.
The commission has maintained that the use of technology in candidate nomination and election administration forms part of its broader efforts to strengthen the credibility, transparency, and efficiency of Nigeria’s democratic process.
With the 2027 elections drawing closer, attention is expected to shift increasingly toward political parties as they finalize their candidates and begin preparations for campaigns ahead of the presidential, governorship, National Assembly, and state legislative contests scheduled for 2027.
