The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has proposed a budget of N126 billion for the 2025 fiscal year.
This request was presented by INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, during the commission’s 2024 budget implementation defence before the National Assembly on Friday.
Prof. Yakubu appealed to lawmakers for approval, noting that the proposed figure is nearly three times the amount allocated in 2024.
He stressed that the funds are essential for INEC to fulfill its constitutional duties effectively.
“Our proposal for 2025 requires the sum of N126 billion. We seek the support of the National Assembly to ensure we are adequately funded to discharge our responsibilities, most of which are constitutional,” he stated.
The INEC Chairman expressed concern over the high cost of conducting elections in Nigeria, calling it exorbitant and burdensome.
He highlighted that INEC operated on a reduced budget of N40 billion in 2024, far below the N80 billion initially requested.
This funding gap, he noted, has strained the commission’s operations.
Prof. Yakubu also called for a legislative retreat to foster collaboration between INEC and the National Assembly in addressing financial and operational challenges affecting Nigeria’s electoral system.
Additionally, he raised concerns about the deteriorating condition of INEC’s 860 buildings nationwide, emphasising the urgent need for repairs.
