INEC Chairman Prof Yakubu, noted that the N40 billion budget envelope would cover less than one-third of the commission’s projected expenses, which include personnel costs influenced by the new minimum wage, as well as the logistics for off-cycle elections in 21 constituencies and the upcoming Anambra Governorship election. Photo Credit: INEC
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has rejected the N40 billion allocated to it for the 2025 fiscal year, citing it as grossly inadequate to meet its operational demands. Instead, the commission gained tacit approval for the N126 billion it proposed to the National Assembly’s Joint Committee on INEC and Electoral Matters.
During a budget defense session on Friday, INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, presented the commission’s case, emphasizing the significant financial requirements for conducting elections in Nigeria.
“Our proposal for the 2025 budget requires over N126 billion,” he stated. “We have detailed documents outlining how every naira will be spent, and we seek the support of the National Assembly to fulfill our constitutional responsibilities.”
INEC explained that, “Personnel costs alone will consume the N40 billion budget envelope. This inadequacy previously forced us to request intervention funds of N10.5 billion for the Edo and Ondo elections in 2024, and an additional N500 million for bye-elections in affected constituencies,” Yakubu added.
Members of the joint committee, chaired by Senator Sarafadeen Alli (APC, Oyo South), expressed support for INEC’s funding request.
Senator Ireti Kingibe (LP, FCT) underscored the urgency of securing the proposed amount. “The situation is not about finding the N126 billion for INEC in the 2025 fiscal year but ensuring it is provided,” she asserted.
The committee subsequently held a closed-door session with the INEC Chairman and Federal Commissioners to deliberate on potential funding sources and the allocation process in the 2025 budget.
INEC’s budget proposal reflects the commission’s effort to address Nigeria’s complex electoral challenges, requiring substantial resources to ensure credible and efficient elections.
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