APGA Unveils 2026 Primary Election Timetable, Fixes Presidential Nomination Forms at N75 Million

The All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) has officially released its provisional timetable and schedule of activities for the 2026 primary elections, setting the stage for the nomination of candidates ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections. The announcement includes detailed dates for key processes and reveals that the total cost of securing presidential nomination forms will stand at N75 million.

The timetable, approved by the APGA National Working Committee and disclosed by its National Publicity Secretary, Ejimofor Opara, outlines a structured sequence of activities aligned with the electoral framework issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

APGA Timetable and Structure of the Primaries

APGA confirmed that all primary elections across the country will be conducted on May 23, 2026, using the Option A4 voting system at the ward level within the constituencies of aspirants. This approach, which emphasizes transparency through open ballot voting, is expected to shape the party’s candidate selection process for various elective positions.

Following the primaries, APGA has scheduled May 28, 2026, for the resolution of appeals arising from the exercise. This timeline provides a narrow but defined window for aggrieved aspirants to seek redress before the final list of candidates is confirmed.

The schedule also outlines key preparatory stages, including the sale and submission of expression of interest and nomination forms between April 20 and May 8. Screening exercises for aspirants are staggered: National Assembly hopefuls will be screened on May 11, State House of Assembly candidates on May 12, and governorship aspirants on May 13.

Cost of Nomination Forms Across Positions

A major highlight of the timetable is the detailed breakdown of fees associated with contesting under the APGA platform. APGA pegged the cost of expression of interest forms at N25 million for presidential aspirants, with nomination forms priced at N50 million—bringing the total to N75 million for those seeking the highest office.

For other positions, Senate aspirants are expected to pay N6 million for expression of interest and N15 million for nomination forms. House of Representatives aspirants will pay N4 million and N12 million respectively, while governorship hopefuls face costs of N10 million and N25 million.

At the state level, aspirants for the House of Assembly are required to pay N2 million for expression of interest forms and N6 million for nomination forms. The party maintains that these fees are consistent with its internal guidelines and necessary for administrative processes.

Compliance with Electoral Guidelines

APGA emphasized that the timetable aligns with the revised electoral schedule released by the Independent National Electoral Commission on February 26, 2026. The party noted that its actions are guided by provisions of its 2019 constitution as well as the Electoral Act 2026.

According to the statement, adherence to the regulatory framework is aimed at ensuring credibility, transparency, and compliance in the party’s internal processes. This alignment is also expected to position the party effectively within the broader national electoral calendar.

Observers note that early release of the timetable may provide aspirants with sufficient time to prepare, while also enabling the party to manage internal competition ahead of the general elections.