The development was made public in an official statement issued on Friday by Mohammed Haruna, the Commission’s National Commissioner and Chairman of its Information and Voter Education Committee.
In the statement, INEC explained that the decision followed extensive internal consultations and a careful assessment of the Commission’s operational priorities in the lead-up to the next electoral cycle.
The Commission noted that while the voter revalidation exercise is a vital mechanism for maintaining the credibility, accuracy, and integrity of the national voter register, implementing it at this stage could significantly strain its logistical, financial, and administrative resources.
Haruna emphasized that INEC is currently focused on consolidating preparations for the 2027 general elections, which remain a top priority.
He highlighted the need for the Commission to channel its efforts toward critical pre-election activities, including voter education, stakeholder engagement, staff training, technological upgrades, and the strengthening of electoral infrastructure across the country.
According to him, undertaking a nationwide revalidation exercise concurrently with these responsibilities could compromise efficiency and overall effectiveness.
The Commission further reiterated its unwavering commitment to electoral transparency, inclusiveness, and credibility.
It assured Nigerians that the postponement should not be misconstrued as a step back from ongoing electoral reforms, but rather as a strategic and pragmatic decision designed to ensure that both the elections and the eventual revalidation exercise are executed to the highest standards.
INEC also acknowledged the importance of public trust in the electoral process, stressing that maintaining an accurate and up-to-date voter register remains a cornerstone of democratic governance.
In this regard, the Commission pledged that the postponed revalidation exercise would be conducted comprehensively after the 2027 elections, with improved frameworks, enhanced technology, and broader stakeholder collaboration to ensure a more robust outcome.
Furthermore, the Commission called on political parties, civil society organizations, development partners, and the general public to remain supportive and cooperative.
It assured stakeholders that timely updates, clear guidelines, and adequate sensitization campaigns would precede the eventual rollout of the exercise, ensuring that all eligible voters are properly informed and able to participate without difficulty.
INEC concluded by reaffirming its dedication to delivering free, fair, and credible elections in 2027, while continuing to pursue reforms that will strengthen Nigeria’s democratic institutions in the long term.