- New Logo Signals Regulatory Reforms as Presidential Candidates Face Proposed ₦75m Charge, Governorship Candidates ₦60m, Senators ₦50m, Reps ₦45m and Assembly Candidates ₦30m
By Princely Onyenwe | News Desk
OWERRI, Imo State — The Imo State Signage and Advertisement Agency (IMSAA) has announced a proposed schedule of rates and regulatory requirements for political advertising ahead of the 2027 general elections, setting the proposed charge for presidential candidates at ₦75 million and governorship candidates at ₦60 million, while unveiling a new logo as part of efforts to reposition the agency.
The two announcements were contained in press releases issued on October 13, 2026. While one outlines the proposed financial obligations for candidates contesting various elective offices and the regulatory requirements for political campaign advertisements, the other announces a refreshed corporate identity, signalling what the agency describes as a new chapter in signage and outdoor advertising regulation in Imo State.
Under the proposed political advertising rates, presidential candidates are to pay ₦75 million, governorship candidates ₦60 million, senatorial candidates ₦50 million, House of Representatives candidates ₦45 million and State House of Assembly candidates ₦30 million.
The proposed schedule places presidential candidates at the highest payment level, followed by governorship candidates, while candidates contesting senatorial, House of Representatives and State House of Assembly seats are assigned rates according to their respective offices.
The announcement comes as political parties and aspirants prepare for the 2027 general elections, with outdoor advertising expected to remain an important channel for communicating campaign messages, promoting candidates and reaching voters.
The proposed charges have drawn attention to the financial implications of political advertising in Imo State, particularly for candidates seeking visibility through billboards and other outdoor advertising platforms. Their eventual impact on campaign planning may depend on the applicable requirements, the advertising spaces sought and the final terms of implementation.
IMSAA’s regulatory framework is intended to govern the placement and approval of political advertisements across the state. Candidates, political parties and other applicants are expected to comply with the agency’s prescribed procedures before deploying campaign materials at approved locations.
The rates announcement also comes against the background of previous public debate over political advertising fees in Imo State. Earlier media reports published different figures for some elective offices, raising questions about the applicable schedule and the financial obligations candidates would be required to meet. The October 13 release is therefore significant to political parties, candidates, advertising practitioners and other stakeholders seeking clarity on the proposed costs ahead of the elections.
Beyond the financial provisions, prospective advertisers will need to establish the application process, approval conditions, payment procedures and any restrictions governing the placement of campaign materials.
In a separate press release issued the same day, IMSAA unveiled its new logo and refreshed corporate identity, describing the development as a renewed chapter for signage and outdoor advertising in the state.
The agency said the transformation coincides with the arrival of a new General Manager and reflects its commitment to modern, transparent and technology-driven regulation under the administration of Governor Hope Uzodinma.
According to the agency, its ongoing reform efforts are focused on improving the vetting and licensing process, strengthening environmental and public-safety standards, deepening collaboration with sister ministries, departments and agencies, and building constructive relationships with advertising practitioners, businesses and members of the public.
IMSAA said its goal is to foster a well-regulated visual environment that enhances communities, builds public confidence and supports sustainable revenue generation for the state.
The agency further stated that the renewed identity aligns with the Imo State Government’s 3R agenda of Reconstruction, Rehabilitation and Recovery, as well as its vision of Shared Prosperity.
The unveiling of the new logo, alongside the proposed political advertising rates, places the agency’s regulatory responsibilities and institutional repositioning in focus as preparations for the 2027 elections gather momentum.
However, the implementation of the proposed rates and the effectiveness of the announced reforms will depend on clear guidelines, transparent administration and effective communication with candidates, political parties, advertising practitioners and the public.
Stakeholders are expected to monitor further clarification from the agency on the application of the proposed rates, the requirements for securing advertising approvals and the implementation of its broader regulatory reforms.
For official information and further updates, visit the IMSAA website: https://imsaa.imostate.gov.com.
