Reps raise campaign spending limits ahead of 2027 elections
Ahead of the 2027 general elections, the House of Representatives has approved an upward review of campaign spending limits for candidates seeking elective offices across the country.
The decision was taken during plenary as part of ongoing amendments aimed at adjusting electoral spending ceilings to reflect current economic realities.
Under the new limits, presidential candidates are now permitted to spend up to ₦10 billion, an increase from the previous ₦5 billion cap. Governorship candidates can spend up to ₦3 billion, up from ₦1 billion, while senatorial candidates may now expend a maximum of ₦500 million, compared to the former ₦100 million limit.
For candidates seeking election into the House of Representatives, the spending ceiling has been raised from ₦70 million to ₦250 million. At the state level, aspirants to state Houses of Assembly can now spend up to ₦100 million, increased from the earlier ₦30 million.
The lawmakers also approved higher spending limits for candidates contesting local government elections. Under the revised framework, chairmanship candidates are allowed to spend up to ₦100 million, up from ₦30 million, while councillorship candidates can now spend up to ₦10 million, compared to the previous ₦5 million limit.
The House said the adjustments are intended to align campaign finance regulations with prevailing economic conditions while ensuring clearer guidelines for electoral spending ahead of the 2027 polls.
