What You Need to Know: Top Changes in Nigeria’s 2026 Electoral Act

Nigeria’s 2026 Electoral Act took effect on February 18, 2026, replacing the 2022 law. It now covers nine parts and 156 sections, from voter registration to election petitions. Key updates include stricter penalties and new offences, mandatory use of BVAS for accreditation, and direct primaries for political parties. Timelines for election funds release and notices have been shortened, while candidate submission rules and ballot formats are more detailed. The Act also mandates digital registers for party members, narrows court jurisdiction over internal party disputes, and requires electronic transmission of results. These measures aim to boost transparency, curb malpractice, and strengthen internal democracy. Source: INEC.

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