The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declined the N40 billion allocation proposed in the 2025 budget, calling for a significantly higher amount to meet its operational needs.

INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, expressed the commission’s concerns during a budget defense session before a joint committee on INEC and Electoral Matters at the National Assembly on Friday.

The session was chaired by Senator Sarafadeen Alli (APC, Oyo South).

Yakubu highlighted the growing financial demands of conducting elections in Nigeria, stating, “Our proposed budget for 2025 outlines a need for over N126 billion, with detailed breakdowns on how the funds will be utilized.”

He emphasized the importance of adequate funding, noting, “The N40 billion allocated will not cover one-third of our projected expenses, which total over N126 billion.”

Yakubu further explained that the funds were necessary for managing constitutional responsibilities, including off-cycle elections for 21 constituencies and the upcoming Anambra governorship election.

He added, “Personnel costs due to the new minimum wage alone will consume the current allocation.”

The chairman cited previous interventions, such as the N10.5 billion received for the Edo and Ondo elections in 2024 and an additional N500 million for by-elections, as indicators of the financial strain the electoral body faces.

In response, members of the joint committee assured INEC of their support, promising to consider the proposed budget increase in the 2025 fiscal appropriation.