2027 Elections: INEC Activates BVAS Preparations, Deploys Air Force Jets To Distribute Materials Nationwide

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has commenced the configuration of its Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) machines and initiated the nationwide distribution of non-sensitive election materials ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections, signalling an intensification of preparations for the crucial electoral exercise.

The development was confirmed by the Chairman of INEC’s Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Haruna, who disclosed that the commission had begun configuring the accreditation devices well ahead of the elections to allow sufficient time for the technical process.

Haruna explained that configuring the BVAS machines was a time-consuming exercise that required early commencement to ensure the devices were properly prepared for deployment across the country. He said the commission was determined to avoid unnecessary delays in its technological preparations.

According to him, the distribution of non-sensitive election materials had equally commenced, with the Nigerian Air Force providing logistical support through the deployment of aircraft to transport the materials to different states.

“The distribution of the non-sensitive materials for the 2027 election is already on. As we speak, Air Force jets are currently deploying materials to states,” Haruna disclosed.

The latest development follows an earlier announcement by INEC National Commissioner, Professor Rhoda Gumus, that the commission had commenced moving non-sensitive election materials to some geopolitical zones after undertaking an assessment of its operational preparedness.

Gumus made the disclosure in Abuja during a meeting with a delegation from Kenya’s Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission, led by Kenya’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, Isaac Parashina. She explained that the assessment involved visits to the six geopolitical zones to evaluate preparations, identify logistical difficulties and establish areas requiring urgent attention.

The national commissioner also disclosed that INEC had completed nine scheduled activities under its electoral preparations, adding that the commission was encouraged by the progress recorded. She said the movement of election materials to some zones had already started, while other preparatory activities were being intensified.

Beyond the movement of election materials and BVAS configuration, INEC has also been working on voter registration-related preparations, personnel capacity building and the procurement and deployment of electoral technology. The commission has emphasised the importance of ensuring that its state and zonal structures are adequately prepared before the elections.

The 2027 electoral exercise is expected to take place in two major phases, covering presidential and National Assembly elections, followed by governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections. Political parties, candidates, security agencies and other stakeholders are also expected to intensify their preparations as the country approaches the polls.

With the early configuration of BVAS and the deployment of Air Force aircraft for election logistics, INEC is moving further into the operational phase of its preparations. The commission will, however, face the critical responsibility of ensuring that the technology, personnel, logistics and other electoral arrangements deliver a credible, transparent and peaceful electoral process.