2027 Elections: Osun INEC Confirms 5,763 Functional BVAS Devices, Assures Voters of Preparedness.

2027 Elections: Osun INEC Confirms 5,763 Functional BVAS Devices, Assures Voters of Preparedness.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Osun State has confirmed that it has 5,763 functional Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) devices ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections, signalling increased preparations for the forthcoming electoral exercise.

The disclosure was made by the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Osun State, Mrs Oluwatoyin Babalola, during a briefing on the commission’s level of preparedness for the elections.

According to reports, the available devices are intended to support voter accreditation across the state’s polling units, with additional machines reserved to provide backup in the event of technical challenges during the electoral process.

The BVAS technology plays an important role in Nigeria’s electoral system by verifying voters through biometric information, including fingerprints and facial recognition. It is also used to facilitate the electronic transmission of polling unit results to INEC’s Result Viewing Portal (IReV).

Babalola’s disclosure comes as INEC intensifies preparations for the 2027 general elections, with the commission working towards strengthening its operational capacity, electoral logistics and technological readiness.

The electoral body has also continued efforts to improve voter participation through the collection of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), recruitment of ad hoc election personnel and preparations for the distribution of election materials.

However, the availability of functional BVAS devices remains only one aspect of electoral preparedness. Reliable network connectivity, proper configuration, adequate technical support and timely deployment will also be essential to ensuring that the technology performs effectively on election day.

Concerns surrounding BVAS reliability have previously emerged during elections in Nigeria. Following the August 2026 Osun governorship election, election observer group Yiaga Africa called for a comprehensive technical audit of the devices after reporting malfunctions in some polling units.

The concerns highlight the importance of sustained testing, maintenance and technical improvements ahead of the 2027 polls.

INEC’s preparations will therefore face close scrutiny from political parties, civil society organisations, election observers and the Nigerian electorate, particularly regarding transparency, credibility and the effective deployment of electoral technology.

Nigeria’s 2027 presidential and National Assembly elections are scheduled for January 16, 2027, while governorship and State House of Assembly elections are scheduled for February 6, 2027, according to INEC’s published election calendar.

As preparations continue, the commission will be expected to translate its reported technological readiness into a credible, transparent and seamless voting process that protects the confidence of voters.