The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has reduced the cost of its presidential nomination form from N100 million to N90 million and unveiled a revised timetable for its 2026 primary elections ahead of the 2027 general polls.
The adjustment marks a significant review of the party’s earlier nomination fee structure and signals efforts to make the process more accessible to aspirants.
The announcement was made on Tuesday in Abuja by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi.
According to him, the decision followed extensive consultations with party leaders, aspirants, and stakeholders across the country.
The revised fee structure now places the presidential nomination form at N90 million, representing a N10 million reduction from the previously announced amount.
Under the updated schedule, governorship aspirants are expected to pay N30 million, while Senate aspirants will purchase forms for N10 million.
The House of Representatives nomination form has been fixed at N5 million, while aspirants for State House of Assembly seats will pay N2 million.
The party also retained its concessionary policy designed to promote inclusiveness.
Under the arrangement, youths between the ages of 18 and 35 are entitled to a 50 per cent discount on nomination forms.
Women and persons living with disabilities will continue to enjoy a 25 per cent reduction.
Abdullahi explained that the concessions are part of the ADC’s broader efforts to encourage wider participation and create opportunities for underrepresented groups within the political process.
He also released the updated timetable for the party’s 2026 primaries.
According to the schedule, the sale of nomination forms will run from May 1 to May 4.
Submission of completed forms is expected to take place between May 6 and May 13.
Screening of aspirants has been fixed for May 14 and May 15, while the publication of screening results is scheduled for May 17.
Appeals arising from the screening exercise will be entertained from May 18 to May 19.
The final list of cleared aspirants will be released on May 20.
Primary elections for State House of Assembly, House of Representatives, and Senate positions will hold on May 21.
Governorship primaries are scheduled for May 22, while the presidential primary will take place on May 23.
This will be followed by the party’s National Executive Committee meeting on May 25.
The Special National Convention, where key ratifications are expected, will hold on May 26, 2026.
Abdullahi said the revisions reflect broad-based consultations aimed at strengthening internal democracy and ensuring a smoother electoral process within the party.
He noted that the adjustments are intended to improve accessibility and foster broader participation among party members seeking elective offices.
The party spokesman urged all aspirants and stakeholders to strictly comply with the revised timetable and operational guidelines as preparations intensify for the 2027 elections.
The latest changes come at a crucial time as political parties continue to fine-tune their strategies and internal processes ahead of what is expected to be a highly competitive electoral cycle.
What You Should Know
The ADC’s decision to reduce its presidential nomination form fee reflects growing pressure on political parties to make their processes more inclusive and financially accessible.
High nomination fees have long been criticised for discouraging young and grassroots aspirants from participating in Nigerian politics. By lowering the fee and retaining discounts for youths, women, and persons with disabilities, the ADC appears to be positioning itself as a more inclusive platform.
The revised timetable also indicates that the party is accelerating preparations for 2027, signalling serious intent to remain competitive amid shifting alliances and realignments in Nigeria’s opposition politics.
