All communities confronting security challenges, as well as Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) camps and riverine areas, will participate actively in the local council elections scheduled for November 1, 2025, in Niger State.

The Chairman of the Niger State Independent Electoral Commission (NSIEC), Engineer Mohammed Jibrin Imam, gave the assurance during the pre-press briefing and distribution of sensitive election materials ahead of the Saturday polls, in the presence of stakeholders and security agencies, held at the premises of the commission, on Thursday, November 30, 2025.

Engr Jibrin Imam explained that the non-sensitive materials had been duly delivered to the 25 Local Councils Electoral Officers (EOs), while the distribution of sensitive materials is being carried out early to avoid unforeseen logistical problems.

Imam hinted that materials are being distributed to the 4,950 polling units, 274 wards, and the 25 local council areas, which include both councillorship and Chairmanship materials for the elections.

The NSIEC chair emphasised that the full constitutional processes were strictly followed to avoid complaints, which have not been recorded from political parties, security agencies, observers, among others.

Engineer Jibrin, however, called on the political actors, especially the political parties, to adhere strictly to the signed peace accord, promising to ensure a level playing ground for all, while the commission remains open to listen to complaints.

Jibrin Imam had earlier praised the election stakeholders for their unwavering support, understanding, and cooperation since the process began, urging for its sustainability in order to achieve credible, peaceful, and acceptable local council elections in Niger State.

Meanwhile, Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago of Niger State has declared Thursday, October 30, and Friday, October 31, 2025, as public holidays ahead of the Saturday local council elections in the state.

The governor announced this on Wednesday in Minna, exempting essential service providers.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, Governor Bago said, “We have declared Thursday and Friday as public holidays, but those who are handling essential services like hospitals, banks, and security are exempted from the public holiday.”

The governor, however, encouraged the electorate to come out en masse to vote for candidates of their choice in a peaceful and harmonious manner for the progress and development of Niger State.

Also, the Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Niger State, and the Catholic Bishop of Kontagora Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Bulus Dauwa Yohanna, have advised residents to participate in the local council elections.