The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced October 9, 2026, as the commencement date for the collection of newly issued Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) nationwide ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The announcement was made on Monday, September 28, following an election readiness assessment visit by INEC Chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan, and his team to Kaduna State.

During the visit, Amupitan directed electoral officials to address operational gaps, maintain neutrality and ensure that avoidable weaknesses do not undermine the credibility of the forthcoming elections.

The 2027 presidential and National Assembly elections are scheduled for January 16, 2027, while governorship and State House of Assembly elections will hold on February 6, 2027.

INEC is yet to provide further details in the reports reviewed regarding the collection deadline and specific collection arrangements for individua

l states.