The House of Representatives has approved major revisions to Nigeria’s electoral framework, significantly increasing campaign expenditure limits ahead of the 2027 general elections. These amendments to the Electoral Act 2022 aim to align campaign financing with current economic realities.
Revised Spending Ceilings Across Positions
The approved adjustments substantially raise campaign spending caps for all elective positions:
- Presidential candidates: ₦5 billion → ₦10 billion
- Governorship candidates: ₦1 billion → ₦3 billion
- Senatorial candidates: ₦100 million → ₦500 million
- House of Representatives candidates: ₦70 million → ₦250 million
- State Assembly candidates: ₦30 million → ₦100 million
- Local Government Chairpersons: ₦30 million → ₦100 million
- Councillorship candidates: ₦5 million → ₦10 million
Increased Donation Limits
The amendments also raise maximum donation amounts tenfold. Individuals and organizations can now contribute up to ₦500 million to candidates, a significant increase from the previous ₦50 million cap. Lawmakers cite rising campaign costs as justification.
Electronic Transmission Mandated
Separately, legislators approved mandatory real-time electronic transmission of election results. This reform fulfills longstanding demands from civil society groups for enhanced electoral transparency.
Legislative Next Steps
The amended Electoral Act requires Senate concurrence and presidential assent before implementation. These changes could reshape campaign dynamics for Nigeria’s next electoral cycle.
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