By David Lawani, Abuja
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has warned that inadequate funding, poor staff welfare and the growing exodus of experienced personnel could undermine preparations for the 2027 general elections and weaken the country’s electoral management system.
INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan (SAN), raised the alarm in Abuja on Tuesday, saying the electoral body was increasingly struggling to retain skilled manpower at a time Nigeria was heading into another politically intense election cycle.
The warning comes amid growing concerns over institutional capacity, electoral credibility and the rising migration of professionals from public institutions in search of better opportunities abroad.
According to Amupitan, the commission’s responsibilities extend far beyond election day management and require sustained investment in personnel, technology and logistics.
“Unless staff welfare improves, the Commission risks a widening skills gap as senior officials retire and experienced employees leave for better opportunities elsewhere.”
The INEC chairman noted that the commission maintains offices in the 36 states, the Federal Capital Territory and all 774 local government areas, while simultaneously managing voter registration, political party regulation, election petitions and off-cycle polls.
He disclosed that governorship elections often cost more to organise than presidential and National Assembly elections combined because of their extensive operational and logistical demands.
Amupitan argued that competitive remuneration and improved welfare packages were no longer optional if the commission hoped to retain institutional memory and professional competence ahead of the 2027 elections.
“Competitive salaries, enhanced welfare packages and continuous professional development will strengthen staff morale and improve public confidence in the electoral process.”
He also called for greater investment in electoral technology, infrastructure and capacity building as part of efforts to protect institutional knowledge and improve operational efficiency.
The INEC chairman announced that the Presidential and National Assembly elections would hold on January 16, 2027, while the governorship and state assembly elections are scheduled for February 6, 2027.
He also confirmed that the Osun governorship election would
