The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced the dates for the upcoming governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun states, scheduled for Saturday, July 20, and Saturday, August 8, 2026, respectively.

INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, disclosed this on Friday during the swearing-in ceremony of six newly appointed Resident Electoral Commissioners recently confirmed by the National Assembly.

Yakubu also revealed that the commission is finalising arrangements for bye-elections to fill vacant seats in both the National and State Houses of Assembly.

According to the timetable, the Ekiti governorship election will take place on June 20, 2026. Party primaries are slated to hold between October 20 and November 10, 2025.

Political parties must upload their nomination forms by 6pm on December 22, 2025.

The final list of candidates will be published on January 18, 2026, with campaigns beginning on January 21 and ending 24 hours before the election.

He said, “In line with the requirements of the law, the commission is under legal obligation to publish the notices for major elections not later than 360 days before the date fixed for the election.

“In compliance with the law, the commission has approved the timetable and schedule of activities for the Ekiti and Osun State governorship elections.”

“The last governorship elections in the two states were held in June and July 2022. The four-year tenure of the governors will end next year.”

“For Ekiti State, the election will be held on Saturday, 20th June 2026.”

“However, party primaries will start on 20th October 2025 and end on 10th November 2025 to enable Political Parties to upload their nomination forms to the dedicated portal which automatically shuts down by 6.00pm on 22nd December 2025, i.e. not later than 180 days before the election.”

“The final list of candidates will be published on 18th January 2026 while campaign in public by political parties will commence on 21st January 2026 and end 24 hours before election day.”

In Osun State, the governorship election is set for August 8, 2026. Party primaries are scheduled between November 24 and December 15, 2025, with the nomination portal closing at 6pm on February 9, 2026.

The final list of candidates will be released on March 9, 2026, and political campaigns will run from March 11 until the day before the election.

Yakubu explained, “In the case of Osun State, the election will be held on Saturday, 8th August 2026. Party primaries will start on 24th November 2025 and end on 15th December 2025.”

“The portal for the upload of nomination forms by political parties closes at 6.00pm on 9th February 2026, i.e. not later than 180 days before the election.”

“The final list of candidates will be published on 9th March 2026, while campaign in public by political parties will commence on 11th March 2026 and end 24 hours before election day.”

Yakubu stated that the detailed timetable for both elections has already been uploaded to INEC’s website and social media channels for public access and to guide political parties.

Some Resident Electoral Commissioners have also been redeployed across the country. The redeployed RECs include Sa’ad Idris to Gombe; Johnson Sinikiem to Cross River; Feyijimi Ibiyemi to Ogun; Mukhtar Gajiram to Taraba; Chukwuemeka Ibeziako to Abia; and Umar Garba to Sokoto.

Yakubu explained that the redeployment was necessary to support the commission’s work ahead of upcoming elections.

The INEC chairman added, “With the swearing-in of six RECs today, all vacancies have been filled in the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory. It is therefore appropriate to start by congratulating the new RECs that have just taken the oath of office.”

“The conduct of elections is not only a huge responsibility but also a sacred duty. As RECs, you are the representatives of the commission in the various states to which you will be deployed shortly. The work of the commission is, to say the least, very challenging.”

“Together, all six of you have cumulative experience in election administration or the management of public affairs to justify the confidence reposed in you to serve in the high office of REC.”

While the affected RECs have already been notified administratively, the full list of their new postings will be published shortly on INEC’s official website and social media platforms.

He emphasised that the redeployment of RECs is a routine administrative exercise and may occur again as circumstances require.

The INEC chairman urged the RECs, “As you assume or resume duty, I urge you to focus on your responsibilities. Let me make it clear from the outset that you must at all times be guided by the electoral legal framework, the code of conduct for RECs as well as the regulations and guidelines governing the commission’s operations.”

“Above all, you must always act in good conscience. Do not betray your oath of office. In the best tradition of the Commission, you must engage with stakeholders through regular consultative meetings and must not be impervious to genuine criticisms.”

“You must never act independently or think that you can act in violation of the law, regulations and guidelines or defy the commission without consequences. We will hold you accountable for your actions and inactions. We will not hesitate to deal with acts of defiance, indiscretion or transgression on the part of any Resident Electoral Commissioner.”

He also addressed growing concerns from the public regarding the delay in conducting pending by-elections and the resumption of the Continuous Voter Registration nationwide.

According to him, the number of pending by-elections has now risen to 17.

He assured Nigerians that preparations for both the CVR and by-elections are nearing completion and that full details will be announced soon.

“The commission is aware of the concern expressed by many Nigerians about the pending bye-elections and the resumption of the Continuous Voter Registration nationwide. The number of bye-elections has now risen to 17.”

“We are aware of the urgency to commence the CVR, particularly in view of the forthcoming governorship election in Anambra State. We want to assure Nigerians that we are finalising our preparations for both activities, the details of which will soon be made public,” he concluded.

As he marked his second year in office, suspended Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara delivered a heartfelt message to the people of the state, calling for peace, unity, and reconciliation amid ongoing political tensions.

In his May 29 anniversary address, Fubara expressed gratitude to the citizens of Rivers State for their continued support during what he described as a turbulent yet progressive tenure.

“Your support has emboldened me to press on and not to retreat, but to work harder to foster peace, reconciliation, and forgiveness,” he said.

According to the governor, the people’s backing has been his source of courage and strength as he continues efforts to deliver on his administration’s promise of transformative development.

“These are essential to restoring normalcy and delivering transformational infrastructure, impactful programmes, and life-changing services across the State.”

Reflecting on his journey since his inauguration on May 29, 2023, Fubara described the moment as one of sober reflection and renewed determination.

He acknowledged the political challenges that have defined parts of his tenure, admitting they may have slowed progress but not derailed the mission.

“Despite the turbulence, I have remained steadfast and focused, guided by the oath I took and the solemn promise I made to always put Rivers State first.”

He listed progress made in healthcare, education, infrastructure, youth empowerment, and gender inclusion as evidence of what he called “modest but significant” achievements under his leadership.

“While we have faced daunting political challenges that have, at times, slowed our pace, these two years have not been without meaningful progress,” Fubara said.

“I am proud of the visible milestones we have achieved, modest but significant strides in healthcare, education, infrastructure, youth empowerment, human capital development, and the inclusion of women in governance.”

He thanked Rivers citizens for their sacrifices and contributions, promising to double efforts to consolidate gains in peace, security, and socio-economic growth.

“These achievements would not have been possible without your unwavering support and hope in the brighter future we all envision for Rivers State.”

“For your sacrifices, contributions, and the roles you’ve played in your respective capacities, I say a heartfelt thank you.”

Fubara used the anniversary to reach out directly to political opponents and stakeholders, urging them to set aside their grievances for the greater good of the state.

“To those still carrying the weight of our recent political struggles, I appeal to you—let us turn the page, come together, and focus on our shared goal of progress and unity. The time to rebuild and rise is now,” he said.

Looking ahead, Fubara reaffirmed his commitment to making difficult decisions in the interest of the people, promising that every action taken by his government will be guided by the best interest of Rivers State.

“We are at a crucial point in our journey, where difficult decisions must be made. Be assured that every step we take will be guided by your best interests and the enduring good of Rivers State.”

He closed with a message of hope and partnership, pledging to work alongside all Rivers citizens in building a future-oriented, unified state.

“As we reflect on the lessons of the past two years, I am hopeful for what lies ahead. I look forward to working hand in hand with all of you to build a State we can all be proud of: a RIVERS STATE that stands as a model for the rest of Nigeria.”

“Thank you once again for the opportunity to serve. God bless Rivers State.”

On the second anniversary of his administration, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has pledged renewed efforts to tackle insecurity, reduce corruption, and implement reforms aimed at stabilizing the Nigerian economy and uplifting citizens.

Addressing the nation on Wednesday morning, Tinubu acknowledged the widespread concerns over rising insecurity but assured Nigerians that his administration is working diligently to address the situation.

He emphasized that security operatives will be fully equipped to combat terrorism and banditry across the country.

“We do not take your patience for granted. I must restate that the only alternative to the reforms our administration initiated was a fiscal crisis that would have bred runaway inflation, external debt default, crippling fuel shortages, a plunging Naira, and an economy in a free-fall,” Tinubu stated.

Reaffirming the goals of his Renewed Hope Agenda, the president said the administration’s mission includes tackling economic instability, enhancing national security, combating corruption, reforming governance, and alleviating poverty.

“Under our Renewed Hope Agenda, our administration pledged to tackle economic instability, improve security nationwide, reduce corruption, reform governance, and lift our people out of poverty,” Tinubu reiterated.

On economic matters, the president admitted the difficulties families have endured as a result of ongoing reforms, but stressed that these policies are essential for long-term stability and prosperity.

The president also noted progress in the agricultural and energy sectors.

He pointed to declining prices of staple foods like rice and a recovery in oil and gas operations, stating that rig counts have surged by over 400% in 2025 compared to 2021.

He added that the sector has attracted more than $8 billion in new investments this year alone.

“We have stabilised our economy and are now better positioned for growth and prepared to withstand global shocks,” he said.

Tinubu concluded his address by expressing appreciation for the support and patience of Nigerians, underscoring that the administration remains focused on delivering its vision for a stronger and more united country.

He said, “Our administration has implemented several reforms to restore and reinvigorate the national economy and strengthen its social fabric as a strong and united country.”

The president also expressed gratitude to citizens, saying, “We do not take your patience for granted.”