From N5bn to N10bn: Reps Increase Presidential Campaign Spending Limit

The House of Representatives has approved an increase in campaign spending limits for candidates contesting elective offices in Nigeria, raising the ceiling for presidential election expenses from N5 billion to N10 billion as part of amendments to the Electoral Act 2022.

The decision was taken on Thursday during plenary following a clause-by-clause review of proposals to reform the electoral law ahead of the 2027 general elections, with lawmakers saying the adjustments reflect current economic realities amid rising costs.

Under the revised provisions, the maximum amount a presidential candidate can spend on campaigns has been doubled to N10 billion from the previous N5 billion limit, while expenditure caps for other elective positions were also increased.

Governorship candidates will now be allowed to spend up to N3 billion, up from N1 billion; senatorial candidates will have a new ceiling of N500 million, up from N100 million; and House of Representatives candidates can spend as much as N250 million, compared with the previous N70 million.

The amendments also extend to state assembly, local government and councillorship contests, with corresponding increases to spending thresholds.

In addition to raising campaign expenditure limits, the House approved an upward adjustment of the maximum amount individuals or entities can donate to a candidate, increasing the cap from N50 million to N500 million.

Lawmakers said the changes are intended to modernise electoral finance rules to align with the realities of inflation and the escalating costs associated with electioneering activities, although critics have expressed concern that higher limits could reinforce existing inequalities in political financing.

The amended provisions will take effect once the Senate concurs and the bill receives presidential assent. Lawmakers have indicated that the reforms are part of a broader legislative effort to update the electoral framework, including provisions on electronic transmission of results and enhanced penalties for electoral offences, as the National Assembly seeks to finalise the legislation in time for upcoming polls.