INEC budgets N12bn for PVC printing before 2027 polls

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has set aside N12.29 billion to print Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) ahead of the 2027 general elections, as part of its wider N873.78 billion election budget.

The commission also allocated N500 million for hand sanitisers and additional funds for other health and safety materials, showing preparations are already underway for the nationwide vote.

INEC presented the budget proposal to the National Assembly, outlining expected costs for voter registration, election materials, technology, and logistics.

PVC production and election materials take priority

The largest portion of the PVC budget will go toward printing cards for new voters and those updating their details during the Continuous Voter Registration exercise.

Beyond PVCs, INEC plans to spend N359.9 million on methylated spirit and N450.2 million on cotton wool and related materials. These items are meant to support safe and smooth voting processes across polling units.

The commission also proposed N1.25 billion to repair and maintain operational vehicles used for election duties nationwide, along with N300 million for stakeholder meetings with political parties.

Technology and operations drive overall spending

INEC’s total proposed election budget of N873.78 billion covers several key areas, including N375.75 billion for election operations and N209.21 billion for technology infrastructure.

INEC upgrades BVAS to prevent election result manipulation

Part of the technology spending will support upgrades to election result management systems and other digital tools used during voting and result collation.

INEC said early funding is necessary to prepare for an election of this scale, adding that proper planning will help ensure a smooth and credible voting process in 2027.