INEC Extends Candidates' Submission Deadline to July 14

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has extended the deadline for the submission of the names and personal particulars of candidates for the 2027 Presidential and National Assembly elections from Saturday, July 11, 2026, to midnight on Tuesday, July 14, 2026. The commission said the extension followed appeals from political parties that were unable to complete the nomination process within the original timeframe.

INEC announced the extension in a statement signed by its National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Kudu Haruna. According to the commission, the decision was taken after the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) requested additional time on behalf of political parties experiencing difficulties uploading the names and personal details of their candidates through the commission's online nomination portal.

The electoral body explained that the extension aligns with its commitment to ensuring inclusiveness in the electoral process while remaining within the provisions of the Electoral Act and the timetable for the 2027 general election. It urged all political parties to make effective use of the additional three days to complete the submission process before the new deadline expires.

INEC also reminded political parties that no further extension should be expected after the new deadline, stressing that compliance with the revised timetable is essential for the smooth conduct of the 2027 general election. The commission reaffirmed its commitment to conducting a transparent, credible and efficient electoral process.

The extension comes as several major political parties, including the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), conclude the submission of their presidential and National Assembly candidates. Analysts say the additional time is expected to help smaller parties resolve outstanding nomination issues and complete their uploads before the portal closes.