Senate Passes Landmark Bill to Slash Election Costs and Boost Voter Turnout

In a move set to reshape Nigeria’s electoral landscape, the Senate has passed a historic bill aimed at cutting election costs and enhancing voter turnout. On Thursday, lawmakers approved a proposed amendment to the Electoral Act 2022, which addresses existing gaps, reduces the financial burden of elections, and introduces major reforms to improve the electoral process.

The bill, introduced by Senator Saliu Mustapha of Kwara Central, focuses on critical changes that could make elections more cost-effective and accessible for citizens. Titled the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill, 2026 (SB.701), the bill successfully passed its second reading on March 27, 2025, following its initial introduction on February 12, 2025.

Key Reforms in the Bill:

1. Same-Day Elections: One of the bill’s most groundbreaking proposals is the introduction of same-day elections across Nigeria. This change aims to streamline the voting process, cut costs associated with staggered elections, and boost voter participation. Mustapha highlighted that the rising costs of elections, which surged from N1.5 billion in 1999 to a staggering N350 billion in 2023, are unsustainable. “Holding elections on the same day will not only reduce expenses but also encourage higher voter turnout,” he said.
2. Shorter Campaign Periods: The bill also proposes a reduction in campaign durations to lessen the financial strain on political parties, candidates, and the government. A shorter electioneering period would reduce unnecessary spending and refocus political leaders on governance, rather than prolonged campaigns.
3. Inclusion of Elected Officials in Party Conventions: Under the current Electoral Act, elected public officeholders are prohibited from serving as ad hoc delegates at political party conventions. The amendment seeks to lift this restriction, allowing positions such as the President, Vice President, Governors, and National Assembly members to participate in their parties’ decision-making processes. Mustapha argued that this inclusion would help bridge the gap between elected leaders and party affairs, fostering greater inclusivity and fairness.

International Inspiration:

Citing examples from countries like the United States, India, and Brazil, Mustapha argued that adopting same-day elections in Nigeria could lead to significant cost savings and improved electoral processes. “These countries conduct elections on the same day, cutting costs and enhancing the overall efficiency of their electoral systems,” he pointed out. By following this model, Nigeria could free up resources for vital infrastructure projects, improving the nation’s future.

Challenges and Concerns:

While the bill received widespread support, it wasn’t without its critics. Senator Adams Oshiomhole of Edo North raised concerns about the readiness of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to manage such an ambitious overhaul. “We must ensure that INEC is adequately prepared for the enormous task of conducting elections for all levels of government on a single day,” he warned. Oshiomhole also expressed concerns about the potential confusion this could cause, particularly among illiterate voters.

However, Mustapha was confident that these challenges could be overcome, emphasizing that the reforms would not only reduce government spending but also deepen Nigeria’s democracy by encouraging wider citizen participation.

Looking Ahead:

With strong backing from most senators, the bill is expected to undergo further scrutiny in the coming weeks. If passed, it could mark a transformative shift in Nigeria’s electoral system, making elections more efficient, cost-effective, and accessible to all Nigerians. The country’s future electoral reforms now hang in the balance, with many hoping this bill will lay the foundation for a more streamlined and inclusive voting process.