The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has reviewed its earlier timetable and nomination fees for the 2026 primary elections, announcing significant adjustments following what it described as “extensive consultations” with party leaders, aspirants and stakeholders nationwide.

In a fresh statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the party said the changes were aimed at strengthening internal democracy and improving participation ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has released an updated schedule of activities for its 2026 primary elections, alongside revised costs for nomination forms, following extensive consultations with party leaders, aspirants, and stakeholders across the country,” the statement said.

Under the revised timetable, the sale and submission of nomination forms will now run concurrently from May 6 to May 13, 2026, with the party stressing that “May 13 remains the final deadline for submission of all completed forms.”

The party maintained that screening of aspirants will take place on May 14 and May 15, while “the publication of screening results is scheduled for May 17, 2026.”

It added that “appeals will be heard between May 18 and May 19,” before “the final list of cleared aspirants will be published on May 20, 2026.”

Primary elections for legislative positions are to commence on May 21. According to the statement, “Primary elections for State Houses of Assembly, the House of Representatives, and the Senate will be held on May 21, 2026, followed by governorship primaries on May 22, 2026.”

In a notable shift from the earlier timetable, the ADC brought forward its presidential primary to May 23, 2026, instead of the previously announced May 25 date.

The statement further noted that “this will be followed by the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting on May 25, 2026, and the Special National Convention on May 26, 2026.”

Beyond the schedule, the party also announced a downward review of nomination fees across all categories, reducing the cost of entry for aspirants.

“Following the review, the cost of nomination forms has been set at N90,000,000 for the presidential ticket, N30,000,000 for governorship, N10,000,000 for Senate, N5,000,000 for the House of Representatives, and N2,000,000 for State Houses of Assembly,” the statement said.

This marks a reduction from the earlier fees of N100 million for the presidency, N50 million for governorship, N20 million for Senate, N10 million for the House of Representatives, and N3 million for State Assembly seats.

Despite the adjustments, the party said it is retaining its concessionary framework to encourage inclusivity.

“The party retains its concessionary framework, providing a 50 percent discount for youth aspirants between the ages of 18 and 35, and a 25 percent discount for women and persons living with disabilities,” Abdullahi stated.

Explaining the rationale behind the changes, the ADC emphasised that “these adjustments reflect the outcome of broad-based consultations aimed at strengthening internal democracy, improving access, and ensuring that the ADC continues to provide a credible and inclusive platform for political participation.”

The party also urged strict compliance with the updated guidelines.

“All aspirants and stakeholders are advised to take note of the updated schedule and revised fees, and to comply fully with all guidelines as published,” the statement added, stressing that “the ADC remains committed to organising effectively and presenting credible candidates to Nigerians ahead of the 2027 general elections.”