Enugu State Imposes ₦150m Advertising Levy Ahead of 2026–2027 Elections!
Reported by sadauna Lydia edeh (Journalist) | Sele Media Africa
Enugu State has introduced a landmark electoral advertising policy mandating political parties and candidates to pay a ₦150 million advertising permit fee ahead of the 2026 local government and 2027 general elections. Announced by the Enugu State Structures for Signage and Advertisement Agency (ENSSAA), the directive is designed to regulate campaign visibility and enforce professional outdoor advertising standards across all 17 local government areas of the state.
According to ENSSAA General Manager Francis Aninwike, the payment of the ₦150 million fee is now required for all parties and candidates wishing to deploy banners, posters, branded vehicles, handbills, T‑shirts, and other visual campaign materials in public spaces, whether urban or rural. The fee must be remitted to the Enugu State Government account before any campaign branding can take place.
Aninwike explained that the guidelines stem from the agency’s mandate to “prevent visual pollution, protect public infrastructure, and maintain professional outdoor advertising standards”, particularly during what is expected to be a highly competitive electoral period.
The policy further stipulates that failure to obtain the permit and pay the prescribed fee could result in the removal of campaign materials and potential legal sanctions against non-compliant parties or candidates. Only Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) licensed practitioners are authorised to erect billboards or manage campaign displays within the state.
ENSSAA also warned against acts such as defacing opponents’ campaign materials, describing such actions as undemocratic and subject to enforcement measures. The agency emphasized that the policy will apply uniformly to all political actors, including incumbents.
This announcement coincides with broader national debates on campaign financing and electoral transparency, including the recently enacted Electoral Act, 2026, which revised spending limits for national offices.
The Enugu directive has already triggered discussions among political stakeholders and civil society observers. Critics argue that the high advertising fee may disadvantage smaller parties, potentially skewing the political landscape in favor of well funded organizations. Proponents, however, contend that the measure could curb excessive commercialization of campaign spaces and promote compliance with advertising standards.
Sources:
- Punch “Enugu imposes N150m advertising fee for political campaigns” (Feb. 23, 2026)
- P.M. News “Enugu govt fixes ₦150m mandatory advert permit for 2026, 2027 elections” (Feb. 23, 2026)
- New Telegraph Nigeria “Enugu Gov’t Fixes N150m Advert Permit For 2026, 2027 Elections” (Feb. 23, 2026)
- The Cable Coverage of electoral finance reforms under the new Electoral Act (Feb. 23, 2026)
Sadauna Lydia Edeh is a student of Plant Science and Biotechnology at Kogi State University with a deep passion for research, critical thinking, and applying knowledge to real-world challenges. Driven by curiosity and a commitment to personal and professional growth, she excels at breaking down complex ideas into clear, actionable insights.
With strong expertise in research, analytical thinking, and effective written communication, Sadauna Lydia Edeh is skilled at organizing information, explaining concepts with clarity, and delivering precise, well-structured work. She thrives in both independent and collaborative environments, demonstrating adaptability, responsibility, and excellent time-management skills.
Motivated, open to learning, and committed to excellence, she values consistency, clarity, and meaningful engagement. Through her contributions, Sadauna Lydia Edeh aims to inform, inspire, and positively impact readers across Africa and beyond.
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