The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has proposed a budget of ₦126 billion for 2025, nearly triple the amount approved for the previous year.
INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, presented the proposal during the 2024 budget implementation defense at the National Assembly on Friday. He emphasized the need for adequate funding to address the Commission’s constitutional responsibilities and challenges.
“The Commission requires the sum of ₦126 billion for 2025. We seek the support of the National Assembly to ensure we are sufficiently funded to fulfill our constitutional duties,” Yakubu said.
The INEC Chairman expressed concern over the high cost of conducting elections in Nigeria, describing it as both exorbitant and burdensome.
Yakubu revealed that INEC operated with a reduced ₦40 billion budget in 2024, significantly lower than the ₦80 billion initially requested. He said this financial shortfall has strained the Commission’s ability to effectively manage its electoral duties.
He also highlighted the deteriorating state of INEC’s infrastructure, noting that 860 buildings across the country are in urgent need of repairs. To address these challenges, Yakubu proposed a retreat between the legislature and INEC to foster collaboration and explore sustainable solutions to improve Nigeria’s electoral process.
“We need a major conversation. The Commission cannot continue conducting elections year-round under such conditions,” he added.
