The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has published its final list of governorship candidates for states participating in Nigeria’s 2027 general elections, providing voters with an official record of the politicians seeking to lead their respective states.
The list, released on Saturday, October 10, 2026, contains candidates’ names, political party affiliations and ages. It covers states including Abia, Adamawa, Akwa Ibom, Benue, Enugu, Kaduna, Kano, Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Rivers and several others. However, reports indicate that the final lists for Delta and Niger states were still awaiting publication.
The publication gives Nigerians an opportunity to identify the candidates nominated by registered political parties ahead of the forthcoming governorship contests. It also provides a reference for checking the identities and affiliations of those seeking elected office.
The candidates represent a broad range of political parties, including the All Progressives Congress (APC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), African Democratic Congress (ADC), Labour Party (LP), New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Social Democratic Party (SDP) and Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).
INEC’s publication is an important stage in the electoral process because it helps promote transparency and enables voters, political organisations and election observers to scrutinise the official candidate records. It may also help parties and their supporters identify the individuals appearing on the ballot in their states.
The release follows the commission’s earlier announcement that it would publish the final list in accordance with the statutory timetable for the 2027 governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections.
INEC is constitutionally responsible for organising and supervising elections in Nigeria. The 2027 polls will give eligible voters the opportunity to choose their state governors and representatives, making access to accurate candidate information essential to informed participation.
Voters are advised to consult INEC’s official website for state-specific candidate lists and further election updates as the commission continues preparations for the polls.
