NDC Sets Presidential Nomination Form at ₦60 Million Ahead of 2027 Elections

Party releases detailed primary timetable as preparations intensify for Nigeria’s next presidential race

By Chisom Adaeze

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has officially released its timetable and guidelines for the 2027 primary elections, announcing that aspirants seeking the party’s presidential ticket will pay a total of ₦60 million for Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms.

According to documents released by the party leadership, presidential aspirants are expected to pay ₦20 million for the Expression of Interest Form and an additional ₦40 million for the Nomination Form as political preparations for the 2027 general elections begin to gather momentum across the country.

The timetable, jointly signed by the party’s National Chairman, Senator Moses Zwughele, and National Secretary, Barrister Ikenna Enenweizu, outlines key dates for the screening of aspirants, submission of forms, appeals, and primary elections for various political offices.

The NDC stated that the sale of Expression of Interest Forms will begin on May 13, 2026, and end on May 18, while screening and interviews for aspirants are scheduled to take place between May 19 and May 21.

Party officials explained that the screening process would determine which aspirants qualify to proceed with the purchase of Nomination Forms. Aspirants have also been directed to appear for screening with all necessary credentials and supporting documents in line with party guidelines.

Following the screening exercise, the sale of Nomination Forms will run from May 21 to May 23, while completed forms are expected to be submitted no later than May 25. Appeals related to screening outcomes are scheduled for May 25 and 26.

According to the timetable, primary elections for various elective positions will take place between May 27 and May 28, while the presidential primary election is expected to hold on May 29 in Abuja.

The party also unveiled its fee structure for other political offices. Aspirants seeking State House of Assembly positions are expected to pay ₦2.5 million, while House of Representatives aspirants will pay ₦6 million. Senate aspirants are to pay ₦8 million, while governorship aspirants will pay ₦30 million in total.

Despite the figures attracting public attention online, the NDC insists its nomination fees remain among the lowest charged by major political parties in Nigeria.

The party also announced concessions aimed at encouraging wider participation in the political process. Female aspirants are expected to pay only 50 percent of the approved fees, while persons living with disabilities will pay 25 percent across all categories.

In addition, the NDC disclosed plans to adopt an open secret ballot system for all primary elections as part of efforts to strengthen transparency and internal democracy within the party.

Political observers say the announcement reflects growing activity ahead of the 2027 elections, with parties already positioning themselves for what is expected to be another highly competitive political season.

The NDC has increasingly attracted national attention following reports that several high-profile politicians have aligned with the movement ahead of the next election cycle. Among those linked to the party are former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi and former NNPP presidential candidate Rabiu Kwankwaso, both of whom are seen as influential figures in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.

The party recently held its inaugural national convention in Abuja, where it formally zoned its 2027 presidential ticket to Southern Nigeria — a decision that has already sparked discussions about possible alliances, regional politics, and the future direction of opposition politics in the country.

As preparations continue, analysts believe the NDC’s emergence could reshape conversations around coalition politics, youth participation, and electoral competition ahead of the 2027 general elections.